How weird is that?

Derek explains that his first solo album was inspired by an encounter that Caedmon’s Call had with Bruce Wilkinson at a trade event. At this event, Wilkinson was supposed to speak for about 20-30 minutes, and then Caedmon’s was to perform a few songs when he finished. Wilkinson held forth for about an hour and a half telling the crowd that if they would pray the prayer of Jabez, then God would bless them. According to Derek, Wilkinson never once mentioned Christ or the gospel. Derek was so outraged, that he wanted to speak out against the gospel-free message of Bruce Wilkinson. When the rest of the band demurred, Derek struck out on his own.

Too bad they let the opportunity pass to say something. It’s saddens me how popular the prosperity gospel is. We want a God who will bless us, not one who calls us to suffer:

Romans 8:16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs- heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
Philippians 1:29 For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake,

Fellowship with Christ is a fellowship in his suffering, the message of the prosperity gospel is that suffering is unusual for the Christian and that if you want the blessings of God all you have to do is _____ (in the case of the prayer of Jabez just pray “enlarge my border”) but over and over again in Scripture you see that suffering is natural for the Christian.

1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
1 Peter 2:20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

You can listen to Derek Webb tell his story here.
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Updated: Maybe broke up is a little too strong, more like Derek Webb left over the Prayer of Jabez. Evidently, he’s joining them on their latest album and tour.