Written by Lesallan – December 6, 2023
Billy Graham – One Man’s Innovative Approach to the Ministry
Written by Lesallan
Ohio Christian University
MIN3150 Ministry Leadership (ONF23)
Dr. Steven Gerig
December 6, 2023
Billy Graham – One Man’s Innovative Approach to the Ministry
I decided to delve into the life and work of Billy Graham, a renowned evangelist and preacher. Born in North Carolina in 1918, Graham found his faith at the age of sixteen (Graham, Jr., 2016). He attended several Bible colleges and was ordained as a Baptist minister in 1939.
Graham began his ministry by traveling across the United States and abroad, holding revival meetings. He also founded the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, which utilized various media, including crusades, radio and television broadcasts, books, and magazines, to spread the gospel (The Billy Graham Library, 2020). Graham passed away in 2018 at the remarkable age of ninety-nine.
Billy Graham’s success as a minister can be attributed to multiple factors, including his captivating charisma, his lucid and uncomplicated delivery of the gospel message, his inclusive approach to collaborating with diverse denominations and churches, his skillful utilization of modern technology and media to expand his audience, and his active participation in social and political causes such as civil rights, nuclear disarmament, and world peace (Peace With God, 2023).
One of Billy Graham’s groundbreaking approaches to the ministry involved utilizing mass crusades as a means of evangelizing large crowds of people simultaneously. He held these crusades in various locations such as stadiums, arenas, parks, and other public settings, where he delivered his sermons to thousands, even millions of people. Graham also utilized mediums like radio, television, films, and satellite to broadcast his messages to millions worldwide. Graham encouraged attendees to make personal decisions for Christ and continue their spiritual growth through local churches. He also trained and mobilized countless counselors, volunteers, and pastors to assist him during these crusades. Graham’s crusades had a profound and long-lasting impact on the ministry operations of the church, inspiring numerous evangelists, church leaders, and lay Christians to spread the gospel to others (Peace With God, 2023).
In summary, Billy Graham’s innovative approach to ministry revolutionized evangelism. His charismatic personality, his clear delivery of the Gospel message, and inclusive collaborations significantly contributed to his success. He skillfully harnessed modern technology and media to reach a global audience, and his active involvement in social and political causes, further broadened his influence. His groundbreaking use of mass crusades and various media platforms allowed him to evangelize to millions simultaneously, had a lasting impact on church operations, and inspired many to spread the gospel. Despite his passing in 2018, Graham’s legacy inspires and guides countless individuals in their spiritual journeys.
References:
Graham, Jr., W. (2016). Billy Graham. Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
Peace With God. (2023). Looking for Answers? Peace with God.
The Billy Graham Library. (2020, January 10). The Billy Graham Library. Retrieved from
