Billy Graham: Legendary Influential Christian Evangelist

By Neil McBride, Founder and CEO of Downtown Angels

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Introduction

William Franklin “Billy” Graham Jr. (1918–2018) was a renowned Christian evangelist and one of the most influential religious leaders of the 20th century. Famous for his dynamic preaching, steadfast dedication to the Gospel, and ability to reach millions through television, radio, and live crusades, Billy Graham played a pivotal role in the global expansion of evangelical Christianity. His legacy extends beyond faith, encompassing significant social influence, political engagement, and lasting cultural impact. As a spiritual advisor to U.S. presidents and a unifying voice in times of crisis, Billy Graham’s contributions continue to shape modern Christian ministry and global evangelical outreach.

Early Life and Spiritual Conversion of Billy Graham

Billy Graham was born on November 7, 1918, on a dairy farm outside Charlotte, North Carolina. Raised in a devout Presbyterian household, he grew up with strong Christian values but did not initially develop a personal relationship with Christ. That turning point came in 1934 when, as a teenager, he attended a revival meeting led by evangelist Mordecai Ham. Moved by the message, Graham responded to the altar call and gave his life to Jesus Christ. This life-changing moment marked the beginning of his spiritual journey and laid the foundation for what would become one of the most influential Christian ministries in modern history.

Billy Graham’s Education and Theological Foundation

Billy Graham began his higher education at Bob Jones University but soon transferred to the Florida Bible Institute (now Trinity College of Florida), seeking a more balanced spiritual and academic environment. He later enrolled at Wheaton College in Illinois, where he earned a degree in anthropology in 1943. It was at Wheaton that Graham met Ruth Bell, the daughter of Christian medical missionaries to China. The two married shortly after graduation, beginning a lifelong partnership that lasted over 60 years and resulted in five children.

During his time at Wheaton, Billy Graham firmly established his evangelical convictions affirming the authority of the Bible, the necessity of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and his calling to preach the Gospel to people around the world. These theological foundations would guide his future as one of the most influential Christian evangelists in the history of Christianity.

Billy Graham’s Early Ministry with Youth for Christ International

Billy Graham launched his preaching career with Youth for Christ International, a global Christian organisation dedicated to reaching young people with the message of Jesus Christ. Joining Youth for Christ in the late 1940s, Graham quickly stood out due to his dynamic preaching style and ability to connect with youth from diverse backgrounds.

Through rallies, events, and youth-focused crusades, Graham’s passion for evangelism grew as he witnessed the powerful impact of sharing the Gospel with young audiences. His talent for drawing large crowds and delivering clear, compelling messages helped establish his reputation as one of the most promising evangelists of his generation.

This early experience with Youth for Christ was instrumental in shaping Graham’s approach to ministry, emphasising accessible, heartfelt preaching and mass outreach efforts. It also provided him with a platform to hone his skills before his breakthrough in the Los Angeles Crusade in 1949.

The 1949 Los Angeles Crusade: Billy Graham’s Breakthrough Moment

The 1949 Los Angeles Crusade was a defining event in the life and ministry of Billy Graham, marking his emergence as a national spiritual leader and evangelist. Held under a large canvas tent known as the “Canvas Cathedral” in downtown Los Angeles, the crusade was originally planned to last just three weeks. However, due to unprecedented public response and growing media interest, the event was extended to eight weeks, drawing tens of thousands of attendees.

What made this crusade especially significant was its timing and cultural context. Following World War II, America was experiencing a spiritual hunger, and many were searching for hope and meaning in a rapidly changing world. Graham’s passionate preaching, centred on themes of sin, salvation, and personal transformation through Jesus Christ, resonated deeply with a wide audience.

A key turning point came when media tycoon William Randolph Hearst reportedly sent a now-famous telegram to his editors with the directive: “Puff Graham.” While the exact motivation behind Hearst’s support remains debated, the impact was immediate—Graham began receiving nationwide press coverage, with articles appearing in major newspapers and magazines. This media boost propelled him into the national spotlight and established him as a trusted spiritual voice in America.

During the crusade, several prominent figures, including celebrities and gang members, made public declarations of faith in Christ, further fueling public interest. The spectacle and sincerity of the event captivated the country and helped shape the modern evangelical movement.

The Los Angeles Crusade of 1949 was not just a revival—it was the launchpad for Billy Graham’s global ministry. It marked the beginning of his decades-long series of evangelistic crusades around the world and laid the groundwork for the formation of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) in 1950.

Billy Graham’s Evangelistic Crusades: Spreading the Gospel Across the Globe

From the late 1940s through the early 2000s, Billy Graham conducted over 400 evangelistic crusades in more than 185 countries and territories, reaching an estimated 210 million people in person. Beyond the crowds that gathered in person, millions more encountered his message through radio, television broadcasts, and eventually online streaming, making Graham one of the most widely recognised Christian evangelists in history.

Each crusade followed a carefully crafted and consistent format designed to engage diverse audiences and communicate the Gospel. The events typically began with uplifting worship music, often led by Graham’s longtime musical directors, such as Cliff Barrows, whose deep baritone voice and pastoral presence helped set a reverent tone. Accompanying the worship was the iconic voice of George Beverly Shea, the soloist whose heartfelt hymns stirred the hearts of listeners and created an atmosphere ripe for spiritual reflection.

Following the music, Billy Graham would deliver a simple yet powerful Gospel message, emphasising themes of sin, repentance, salvation, and the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. His sermons were known for their clarity, warmth, and ability to resonate with people from all walks of life, whether in massive stadiums or humble tents.

At the climax of each crusade, Graham would extend an invitation—often referred to as the altar call—encouraging attendees to make a personal commitment to Christ. This invitation became a hallmark of his ministry, leading to millions of recorded decisions for faith throughout his career.

Billy Graham’s crusades were not just spiritual events—they became significant cultural phenomena. His ability to bring together vast and diverse crowds drew attention from all sectors of society, including celebrities, athletes, politicians, and world leaders. Presidents from Harry Truman to Barack Obama sought Graham’s counsel, highlighting his unique role as a spiritual advisor at the highest levels of government.

Moreover, these crusades often took place during pivotal moments in history, providing hope and unity amid social upheaval, wars, and political tensions. Graham’s emphasis on reconciliation, moral integrity, and faith-based solutions resonated widely during the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War, and other transformative eras.

The global reach of his evangelistic campaigns helped establish evangelical Christianity as a major force worldwide, influencing countless local churches, ministries, and individual believers. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), founded in 1950, coordinated these crusades and expanded Graham’s impact through publications, radio programs such as The Hour of Decision, and later television and digital media.

Media and Technology: Billy Graham’s Evangelistic Innovation

Billy Graham was a true pioneer in utilising mass media for Christian evangelism, revolutionising how the Gospel reached millions worldwide. One of his earliest and longest-lasting media efforts was “The Hour of Decision”, a weekly radio program that aired for over 60 years, sharing Graham’s sermons and messages with listeners globally.

As television became the dominant medium in the mid-20th century, Graham quickly embraced it. He produced numerous primetime television specials and broadcast his crusades live across major networks, bringing the experience of his powerful preaching directly into people’s homes. This innovative use of media significantly expanded his audience and influence.

Billy Graham was also a prolific author, penning more than 30 books, several of which became bestsellers. Notable titles include “Peace with God,” a clear presentation of the Gospel; “Angels: God’s Secret Agents,” exploring the biblical role of angels; and his widely acclaimed 1997 autobiography, “Just As I Am,” which reached the New York Times bestseller list.

Through the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), his media outreach grew to include Decision magazine, inspiring films, websites, and global satellite broadcasts, keeping pace with emerging technologies to spread the Christian message worldwide.

Political Influence: Billy Graham as Spiritual Advisor and Moral Voice

Billy Graham’s influence extended beyond the pulpit into the highest levels of American politics. He maintained personal relationships with a remarkable line-up of U.S. Presidents, from Harry Truman to Barack Obama. He served as a trusted spiritual advisor to presidents including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and especially the two Bush presidents, George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush.

While Graham sought to keep his ministry nonpartisan, his early years were marked by active engagement in the political landscape, especially during the Cold War era, when he viewed Communism as both a political and spiritual threat to America and the world. His crusades often contained anti-Communist messages, reflecting the anxieties of the time.

However, Graham’s close association with political leaders occasionally sparked controversy. Notably, his recorded conversations with President Nixon during the Watergate scandal led to criticism that he had become too entangled in politics. In response, Graham consciously adopted a more neutral and less politically vocal public stance in his later years, focusing instead on spiritual guidance and moral leadership without explicit political endorsement.

Billy Graham’s Stance on Social Issues: Civil Rights, Gender, and Family Values

Civil Rights

Billy Graham’s record on civil rights reflects a complex but significant role in America’s struggle for racial equality. In the 1950s, amid the entrenched segregation of the Jim Crow South, Graham took a courageous stand by insisting that his evangelistic crusades be racially integrated. This was a groundbreaking move at the time, challenging societal norms. Notably, during his 1957 New York City crusade, he invited civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King Jr. to pray alongside him, signalling a public endorsement of racial reconciliation.

Despite these steps, Graham stopped short of becoming an outspoken civil rights activist. He maintained that the church’s primary mission was spiritual rather than political or social activism. While some critics argue that he could have taken a stronger stance during the height of the civil rights movement, supporters highlight his consistent calls for racial harmony and the early desegregation of his crusades as meaningful contributions to the cause.

Gender and Sexuality

Billy Graham upheld traditional Christian views on gender and sexuality, emphasising the biblical ideal of monogamous, heterosexual marriage and advocating for sexual abstinence outside of marriage. He championed high moral standards within the ministry, best exemplified by the so-called “Billy Graham Rule”—a personal guideline that he adhered to, avoiding being alone with women other than his wife to maintain integrity and prevent any appearance of impropriety. This practice has influenced many Christian leaders and continues to be referenced in discussions about accountability and boundaries in ministry.

Abortion and Family

Graham was pro-life in his views on abortion, supporting the sanctity of life from conception. However, he chose not to make abortion a central or divisive issue in his public ministry, focusing instead on the broader themes of redemption and spiritual renewal. Throughout his life, he consistently emphasised the importance of family values and expressed concern about the moral direction of society, particularly during the cultural shifts of the late 20th century. His teachings often encouraged strong, faith-cantered families as the foundation for a healthy community and nation.

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA): A Global Ministry Powerhouse

Founded in 1950, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) has been the cornerstone of Billy Graham’s worldwide evangelistic efforts. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the BGEA has grown into a multifaceted ministry with a broad reach and influence. Some of its key initiatives include:

• World Wide Pictures: Producing impactful Christian films that convey the Gospel message through compelling storytelling.
• Decision Magazine: A widely circulated publication that shares Christian teachings, testimonies, and inspirational content.
• The Billy Graham Training Centre at The Cove, located in Asheville, North Carolina, provides spiritual training and discipleship to thousands of pastors and Christian leaders annually.
• Rapid Response Teams: Mobilising disaster relief efforts to provide aid and hope in times of crisis around the globe.
• Global Evangelism Initiatives: Promoting outreach efforts in hundreds of countries to expand the reach of the Gospel.

Today, the BGEA is led by Billy Graham’s son, Franklin Graham, who continues his father’s evangelistic mission. While Franklin maintains the core values of outreach and evangelism, his leadership is often characterised by a more outspoken approach to political and social issues, reflecting the evolving landscape of modern evangelicalism.

Later Years and Death: The Final Chapter of Billy Graham’s Life

In his later years, Billy Graham faced health challenges, including Parkinson’s disease, which gradually limited his public appearances. After preaching his last crusade in New York City in 2005, he slowly stepped back from active ministry but continued to share messages through video and occasional writings.

Billy Graham passed away on February 21, 2018, at the age of 99. His death marked the end of an era for evangelical Christianity. In recognition of his profound impact, Graham was honoured by lying in state at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, a rare distinction for a private citizen, underscoring his unique role as a spiritual leader and national figure.

He was laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Ruth Bell Graham, at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina—a fitting tribute to a life devoted to sharing the message of hope, faith, and redemption.

Billy Graham’s Enduring Legacy: Transforming Global Evangelism and Culture

Billy Graham’s impact on Christianity and global evangelism is truly immeasurable. Throughout his remarkable ministry, he:

• He preached to an estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide, whether in person at his crusades or through the vast reach of radio, television, and digital media.
• Developed a ministry model for mass evangelism that has influenced countless evangelists and Christian organisations, shaping how the Gospel is shared globally.
• Played a critical role in bringing evangelical Christianity into the mainstream of American cultural and religious life, bridging divides and fostering unity across diverse communities.
• Reached beyond borders by meeting with world leaders, preaching behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, and visiting countries that were typically closed to Western missionaries, expanding Christianity’s global footprint.

Billy Graham’s legacy lives on not only through the institutions he founded, like the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, but also through the millions of lives transformed by his preaching, books, and unwavering example of faith and integrity.

Conclusion: Billy Graham—A Defining Voice of 20th-Century Christianity

Billy Graham was much more than a renowned evangelist; he was a defining figure in 20th-century Christianity. His unique gift was the ability to communicate profound spiritual truths in clear, relatable language, making the message of God’s love and salvation accessible to millions.

In a world often marked by division, conflict, and rapid change, Graham’s message remained consistent and hopeful: God loves all people and offers salvation through Jesus Christ. His life and ministry continue to inspire Christians and believers worldwide to share that hope and truth with compassion and courage.

The legacy of Billy Graham endures through his writings, his pioneering use of media, his global evangelistic crusades, and the countless individuals whose lives were changed by his message of faith, grace, and redemption.