Rick Joyner, born in 1949, is an American author and public speaker. In 1985, he co-founded MorningStar Ministries with his wife, Julie. Joyner is known for promoting the Seven Mountain Mandate, a form of dominionist theology that encourages Christian leadership across seven cultural spheres. He has also been involved in promoting other ministries and figures associated with this theology.

Throughout his career, Joyner has been the president of MorningStar Publications and has overseen the relocation and expansion of MorningStar Ministries' headquarters. His ministry acquired part of the former Heritage USA complex, renaming it Heritage International Ministries Conference Center. Joyner has also held advisory roles in organizations like Aglow International and founded the Oak Initiative, a Christian non-profit focused on mobilizing believers.

Joyner's activities have not been without controversy. His ministry faced challenges regarding property tax exemptions and legal disputes over unfinished construction projects. He has also been associated with figures like Todd Bentley, whose claims of miraculous healings have faced scrutiny, and has faced controversy for his involvement with the Knights of Malta (Russian tradition). More recently, he urged Christians to arm themselves in anticipation of a civil war.

Rick Joyner established MorningStar Ministries in 1985 alongside his wife. A central tenet of his public advocacy is the Seven Mountain Mandate, a theological framework suggesting Christians should actively pursue leadership roles within seven key areas of societal influence. This perspective emphasizes integrating faith into governance, education, media, and other cultural domains. Joyner has actively promoted this theology, notably by supporting and featuring the work of other proponents, such as Lance Wallnau, whose materials are widely available through MorningStar Ministries. His ministry has grown significantly, hosting numerous conferences that draw attendees from around the world and expanding its operational footprint.

Beyond founding MorningStar Ministries, Joyner has held presidential roles in MorningStar Publications and has been instrumental in the ministry's physical expansion. In 1997, he relocated the headquarters to Wilkes County, North Carolina. A significant development was the 2004 acquisition of a portion of the Heritage USA complex in Fort Mill, South Carolina, which was subsequently rebranded as the Heritage International Ministries Conference Center. Joyner also founded the Oak Initiative, a non-profit organization designed to mobilize Christians to engage with contemporary issues from a biblical standpoint. Furthermore, he has been recognized within the Apostolic-Prophetic Movement, contributing to its development since the publication of his 1989 book, 'The Harvest'.

Rick Joyner's career has been marked by several controversies. In the late 1990s, MorningStar Ministries faced challenges in obtaining religious property tax exemptions for certain assets, leading to appeals and legal disputes. The ministry was also involved in a significant lawsuit concerning an unfinished hotel structure. Joyner's association with revivalist Todd Bentley, whose claims of miraculous healings drew media attention and skepticism, also generated controversy, particularly regarding the verification of reported healings. Additionally, his membership in the Knights of Malta (Russian tradition) and his public statements urging Christians to prepare for a potential civil war have drawn public attention and debate.