Jesse Duplantis, born on July 9, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a prominent American preacher associated with the Christian Evangelical Charismatic movement. He is the founder of Jesse Duplantis Ministries (JDM), an organization dedicated to sharing God’s message of salvation through Jesus Christ with the world. Duplantis is known for his dynamic preaching style and his emphasis on prosperity theology, often referred to as the “prosperity gospel.”
Throughout his ministry, Duplantis has been a subject of both admiration and controversy. In May 2018, he garnered national attention when he asked his followers to contribute funds for a $54 million Dassault Falcon 7X private jet. Duplantis justified this request by stating that his ministry had previously acquired three private jets by 2006, which were used extensively for evangelical missions. He argued that modern tools, like private jets, are essential for spreading the gospel efficiently, suggesting that if Jesus were on Earth today, he would utilize such means to reach people globally. This perspective, however, faced significant criticism from various quarters.
In response to the backlash, Duplantis clarified on his ministry’s website that he wasn’t directly asking for donations to purchase the plane but was seeking prayers for its acquisition. This incident sparked a broader debate about the ethics and optics of religious leaders possessing luxurious assets, especially when funded by congregational donations.
Beyond his preaching, Duplantis has contributed to Christian literature, authoring several books aimed at inspiring and guiding believers. His works include titles like “Ministry of Cheerfulness” (1994), “Heaven: Close Encounters of the God Kind” (1996), and “The Everyday Visionary: Focus Your Thoughts, Change Your Life” (2008). These publications reflect his theological beliefs, which blend Charismatic, Prosperity, and Word of Faith doctrines.
Duplantis’s influence extended to academic circles when he served on the Board of Regents at Oral Roberts University. The university recognized his contributions by awarding him an honorary doctorate. However, in late 2007, he, along with fellow regent Creflo Dollar and university president Richard Roberts, resigned from the board. Duplantis cited the increasing demands of his ministry as the reason for his departure, indicating that it had become challenging to serve effectively in that capacity.
Despite controversies, Duplantis’s ministry continues to reach a global audience. Jesse Duplantis Ministries emphasizes its mission to make the real Jesus known—approachable, personable, compassionate, and full of joy. The organization utilizes various platforms, including television broadcasts, online streaming, and social media, to disseminate its message. For instance, their official website offers resources, information about upcoming events, and access to past sermons.
In recent times, Duplantis has maintained an active presence on social media, sharing messages intended to inspire and uplift his followers. His posts often reflect his theological stance and aim to address contemporary issues from a faith-based perspective.
In summary, Jesse Duplantis remains a significant figure in the Evangelical Charismatic movement. His ministry’s ongoing activities and his active engagement with followers suggest that reports of his passing are unfounded. As with any public figure, especially within religious contexts, it’s essential to approach information critically and rely on credible sources for confirmation.