Someone just forwarded me this letter from Joel Osteen to his mailing list:

Dear Friend,

Many of you have called, written or e-mailed regarding my recent appearance on Larry King Live. I appreciate your comments and value your words of correction and encouragement.

It was never my desire or intention to leave any doubt as to what I believe and Whom I serve. I believe with all my heart that it is only through Christ that we have hope in eternal life. I regret and sincerely apologize that I was unclear on the very thing in which I have dedicated my life.

Jesus declared in John 14; I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me. I believe that Jesus Christ alone is the only way to salvation. However, it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to review the transcript of the interview that I realize I had not clearly stated that having a personal relationship with Jesus is the only way to heaven. It’s about the individual’s choice to follow Him.

God has given me a platform to present the Gospel to a very diverse audience. In my desire not to alienate the people that Jesus came to save, I did not clearly communicate the convictions that I hold so precious.

I will use this as a learning experience and believe that God will ultimately use it for my good and His glory. I am comforted by the fact that He sees my heart and knows my intentions. I am so thankful that I have friends, like you, who are willing to share their concerns with me.

Thank you again to those who have written. I hope that you accept my deepest apology and see it in your heart to extend to me grace and forgiveness.

As always, I covet your prayers and I am believing for God’s best in your life,

Joel Osteen

The unfortunate thing about this obviously sincere letter is that Osteen- in his writing and preaching- is pursuing a strategy of leaving Jesus out or so far on the fringe that you miss him entirely, and now he has to start assuring his core supporters that he believes the Gospel.

I would urge folks to read the Osteen interviews posted at IM and see what Joel was saying in contexts where he didn’t get the kind of scrutiny he received on Larry King. And then simply listen to his preaching or read his book.

This letter leaves us with the hope that Osteen will be open to hearing that his strategy to submerge the Gospel beneath a message of positive thinking and success is flawed. He’s young, and if he isn’t dominated by stronger personalities more dedicated to this ruse method, we may see the day when he can preach a Christ centered message without contradiction.

Take a year off and study, Mr. Osteen. Go to Piper’s Church or Josh Harris’s church and see how it’s done. I’m praying you truly see what is at stake in your decision to make “that stuff about the cross” part of the fine print, and not the banner headline of the Good News.