Early Life
Kenneth Max Copeland was born on December 6, 1936, in Lubbock, Texas, USA. Raised in a nominally Christian household, his early life was marked by familial instability; his parents divorced when he was young, and he was primarily raised by his mother. Copeland attended local schools in Texas and developed a passion for music, particularly singing and playing the saxophone. His early career path leaned toward secular entertainment rather than ministry.
He is a prominent American televangelist, author, and founder of Kenneth Copeland Ministries (KCM). His ministry, rooted in the Charismatic Movement, emphasizes prosperity theology, teaching that faith can lead to financial and physical well-being.
Secular Music Career and Conversion
– Music Career: In the late 1950s, Copeland pursued a career as a rock-and-roll and country singer. He performed alongside artists like Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline and recorded several singles. In 1957, he recorded “Pledge of Love,” a song that reached No. 17 on the Billboard Top 40 chart, staying there for 15 weeks.
– Spiritual Awakening: In 1962, while struggling with personal and professional setbacks, Copeland attended a tent revival led by evangelist Oral Roberts. This experience led to his conversion to Christianity. Roberts became a mentor, encouraging Copeland to enroll at Oral Roberts University (ORU) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he studied theology
Calling to Ministry
In 1967, while walking along the Arkansas River in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Copeland felt a divine call to preach the gospel to the nations. He enrolled at Oral Roberts University that same year, where he served as a pilot and chauffeur for Oral Roberts.
Ministry Beginnings
Copeland’s ministry began in the mid-1960s:
– He served as an associate pastor at a church in Fort Worth, Texas.
– In 1967, he founded Kenneth Copeland Ministries (KCM) in Tulsa, alongside his wife, Gloria Copeland, whom he married in 1963.
– Influenced by the teachings of Oral Roberts, Kenneth Hagin Sr. (founder of the Word of Faith movement), and Essek William Kenyon, Copeland began emphasizing faith confession, divine healing, and prosperity theology.
Establishment of Kenneth Copeland Ministries
In 1973, Copeland founded KCM, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The ministry started with the “Believer’s Voice of Victory” newsletter, which has grown into a monthly magazine distributed worldwide. KCM’s outreach expanded to include television broadcasts, books, and international conferences, all promoting the message of faith and prosperity.
Theology and Teachings
Copeland is a leading figure in the Word of Faith movement, characterized by:
1. Prosperity Gospel: The belief that financial and physical well-being are guaranteed for believers who exercise faith and “sow seeds” (donations) into ministries.
2. Faith Confession: Teaching that spoken words have creative power to manifest blessings or curses.
3. Divine Healing: Rejecting medical intervention in favor of prayer and faith for healing.
4. Authority of Believers: Asserting that Christians have dominion over Satan and earthly circumstances.
His sermons often blend charismatic preaching with personal anecdotes of miracles. Key books include The Laws of Prosperity (1974) and Welcome to the Family (1979).
Expansion of Kenneth Copeland Ministries
– Media Outreach: KCM expanded through television, launching Believer’s Voice of Victory in 1979, now broadcast globally.
– Conferences and Crusades: Events like the Victory Campaign and Believers’ Convention draw thousands annually.
– International Reach: KCM operates in over 150 countries, with offices in the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, and Africa.
– Partnerships: Copeland collaborates with other televangelists, including Jerry Savelle and Jesse Duplantis, amplifying his influence.
Philanthropy and Business Ventures
– Relief Efforts: KCM provides disaster relief (e.g., Hurricane Harvey) and supports orphanages.
– Education: Copeland founded Charis Bible College (1994) with campuses worldwide.
– Business Interests: Investments in real estate, aviation, and media through KCM’s for-profit arm, Eagle Mountain International Church, Inc.
Personal Life
Copeland has been married three times. He married Ivy Bodiford in 1955, and they had one child before divorcing in 1958. He then married Cynthia Davis in 1958, divorcing in 1961. In 1963, he married Gloria Copeland, with whom he has two children.
Controversies
Copeland’s teachings on prosperity theology have attracted criticism, with some accusing him of promoting materialism. Additionally, his ministry’s financial practices and Copeland’s personal wealth have been subjects of scrutiny and debate.
Awards and Recognition
– Religious Heritage Award from the Faith Christian Fellowship International (2002).
– Honorary doctorate from Oral Roberts University.
– Featured in documentaries like American Gospel: Christ Alone (2018), which critiques his teachings.
Legacy and Influence
Copeland is a polarizing icon of modern Pentecostalism:
– Media Pioneer: His use of television and digital platforms revolutionized evangelism.
– Word of Faith Movement: He popularized “name-it-and-claim-it” theology, shaping charismatic Christianity globally.
– Political Ties: A vocal supporter of conservative politicians, including Donald Trump, he blends faith with political advocacy.
Despite controversies, Copeland’s influence in the Charismatic Movement remains significant. Through KCM, he has reached millions worldwide with his teachings on faith, prosperity, and divine healing.
Conclusion
At 88, Kenneth Copeland remains a dominant yet divisive figure in American evangelicalism. His teachings on faith and prosperity have inspired devotees and incited debates about Christianity’s intersection with wealth and power. While critics decry his opulence, supporters credit him with fostering spiritual empowerment. As KCM transitions leadership to younger family members, Copeland’s legacy as a charismatic trailblazer—and lightning rod—endures
Last modified: March 22, 2025
