In the New Testament, Jesus says it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. In the United States today, many Christians believe in something radically different. In what's known as the prosperity gospel, wealth is a sign of virtue and God's favor. The effects of this belief can be seen throughout American life from business to politics to social Policy.

In the New Testament, Jesus says it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. In the United States today, many Christians believe in something radically different. In what's known as the prosperity gospel, wealth is a sign of virtue and God's favor. The effects of this belief can be seen throughout American life from business to politics to social policy.

(Image credit: Miami Herald)

Edwin Hawkins' use of contemporary sounds, a Latin groove, synthesizers and a soul-influenced lead vocal performance created a new model for gospel music.

(Image credit: Michael Ochs Archives)

The choirmaster is known as the "Ed Sullivan of gospel" and has helped launch the careers of artists like Kirk Franklin and Yolanda Adams.

(Image credit: Kevin Winter)

Gospel singers look back at the legacy of choirmaster and four-time Grammy winner Edwin Hawkins, who died Monday at 74.

(Image credit: Joel Clifton)