Ep 4. Give Me that Big Time Religion

In Frontline season 2 episode 4, titled Give Me that Big Time Religion, the renowned investigative journalism series delves deep into the world of televangelism. The episode explores the immense popularity of evangelical television ministries and the enormous sums of money they generate, as well as the controversies and scandals that have plagued the industry.

The episode's primary focus is on the life and career of Reverend Ike, a prominent figure in the televangelist world. Reverend Ike, whose real name is Frederick J. Eikerenkoetter II, became famous for his charismatic preaching style and his message of prosperity theology, which promised that God would reward followers with material wealth and success.

Frontline examines the various ways in which Reverend Ike built his religious empire and explores the sources of his enormous wealth. The episode also delves into Reverend Ike's confrontations with the government and law enforcement agencies, particularly a 1972 raid by the IRS that forced him to pay nearly $2 million in back taxes.

The episode also looks at the broader implications of the success of televangelism and prosperity theology. Frontline examines how this form of religious expression has evolved over the years and how it has managed to attract such a strong following, particularly among low-income Americans.

The episode highlights the various controversies surrounding televangelism, including accusations of fraud and exploitation, as well as the influence that televangelists wield within American politics and culture. Frontline interviews a range of experts, from religious scholars to critics of televangelism, in order to provide a balanced and nuanced view of this complex topic.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given an inside look at the televangelist industry, from the financial dealings and fundraising tactics to the role that media companies and advertisers play in the business. There are also interviews with people who were once members of Reverend Ike's congregation, offering a glimpse into how his message impacted their lives.

Ultimately, Frontline's Give Me that Big Time Religion sheds light on the complicated and controversial world of televangelism and raises important questions about the intersection of religion, media, and politics in modern America.