American evangelical pastor Billy Graham was one of the world’s most influential pastors. During his six-decade ministry, he travelled all over the world with the message of salvation, impacting millions wherever he went. He spoke at evangelistic crusades and through radio and television broadcasts with the simple yet profound message that Jesus Christ offers forgiveness, redemption and eternal life. Right up until he passed away in 2018, at the age of 99, he made sure he credited his ministry to God. Billy Graham said:
‘So many people think that somehow, I carry a revival around in a suitcase, and they just announce me, and something happens—but that’s not true. This is the work of God, and the Bible warns that God will not share His glory with another. All the publicity that we receive sometimes frightens me because I feel that therein lies a great danger. If God should take His hand off me, I would have no more spiritual power. The whole secret of the success of our meetings is spiritual—it’s God answering prayer. I cannot take credit for any of it.’
Sought out by presidents and celebrities
While the majority of his time was spent with ordinary people, Billy was sought out by presidents, celebrities, and other people of influence. Martin Luther King Jr, an American Christian minister and activist, credited the success of his civil rights movement to Billy Graham’s ministry and friendship. Billy’s approach to evangelism was characterised by compassion, humility, and a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life and cultural and racial backgrounds.
Billy had declined invitations to speak in South Africa for 20 years, insisting that his crusades be integrated. When integration occurred in 1973, he preached in Johannesburg and said:
‘Christ belongs to all people. He belongs to the whole world.…I reject any creed based on hate…Christianity is not a white man’s religion, and don’t let anybody ever tell you that it’s white or black.’
One of the defining features of Billy Graham’s ministry was his unwavering commitment to integrity and moral purity. Throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his personal convictions and maintained a reputation for honesty, humility, and authenticity.
Christian legacy of faith, love, and evangelism
Billy Graham’s influence extended far beyond his lifetime, shaping the course of history and inspiring future generations of Christian leaders and evangelists. His message of salvation reached millions through the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, which continues to carry on his legacy through various ministries, including evangelistic events, humanitarian aid projects, and discipleship programs.
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Billy Graham, we are reminded of the timeless truths he proclaimed: that faith in Jesus Christ offers hope to the hopeless, healing to the broken, and salvation to all who believe. His message continues to resonate in a world searching for meaning and purpose, reminding us of the enduring power of the Gospel to transform lives and bring about lasting change.
Billy Graham’s powerful Christian legacy is one of faith, love, and evangelism—a legacy that continues to inspire and impact millions around the world.
To continue Billy Graham’s legacy, his grandson, Will Graham will be visiting the Gold Coast on the 29th of June 2024 for the Look Up Celebration. Click here for more information.
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