Running Head: Character Selection And Rationale

Running Head Character Selection And Rationale

CHARACTER SELECTION AND RATIONALE 3 Character Selection and Rationale Weltee Wolo Rasmussen College Author Note This paper is being submitted on October 17, 2017 Sherry Kamrowski’s American Religious History G333/REL3131 course Character Selection and Rationale The choice of my historical religious figure is William Franklin “Billy” Graham, a renowned evangelical Christian evangelist who has been named as one of the most influential Christians of the 20th century (Finstuen, Wills, & Wacker, 2017). Billy Graham was and still is a major authority in the modern-day evangelical movements, who through his ministry work reached out to millions of believers not only in the USA but also across the Globe.

Billy was able to sustain over 60 years of televangelism through the various networks. Overall, these years, it is interesting to note that Billy Graham was able to reach out to every homestead in the USA. Thousands of believers who flocked the various stadiums attended the annual conferences held over all these years. During these meetings, miracles and wonders would be performed which displayed the glory and the authority of God (Finstuen, Wills, & Wacker, 2017). The meetings were filled with the presence of the Holy Spirit and would see hundreds of thousands giving their lives to Christ.

The aspects of being able to unapologetically minister the word of God across difficult times without much regard to the status and the politics of the day is an excellent sign of firmness and focus on the word of God. This element was able to rightfully place the word of God into the American and the global societies. Through his international outreaches, it is important to note that Billy would minister to heads of states and governments and teach the word of God with such clarity and power that rejuvenated the church across the globe. Even today, most of his teachings are still broadcast across the globe and continue to minister to congregations (Trinity Broadcasting Network, 2016).

Paper For Above instruction

William Franklin Graham, commonly known as Billy Graham, stands as a towering figure in the history of American religious evangelism and global Christianity. His life and work exemplify the profound impact an individual can have through unwavering faith, innovative communication, and dedicated service. Analyzing Graham’s influence reveals insights into the evolution of evangelical Christianity, the role of media in religious movements, and the cultural implications of religious revivalism in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Born in 1918 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Billy Graham’s early life was marked by humble beginnings and a burgeoning faith that would eventually translate into a worldwide ministry. His conversion during the 1930s, coupled with his strong spiritual convictions, propelled him into the realm of evangelism. Graham’s approach was rooted in traditional Christian doctrine, yet he adeptly harnessed emerging media technologies—especially radio and television—to reach audiences on an unprecedented scale. His evangelistic campaigns, often held in large stadiums and broadcasted nationally and internationally, exemplify a new model of mass evangelism that combined faith with modern media communication strategies.

The significance of Billy Graham’s ministry extends beyond mere numbers. His influence influenced American religious culture and politics profoundly. Graham was known for his ability to cross denominational boundaries, appeal to political leaders, and promote a message of personal salvation and moral responsibility. His interactions with U.S. Presidents—from Dwight D. Eisenhower to George W. Bush—highlight his role as both spiritual advisor and influential public figure. His emphasis on racial integration during his crusades also marked a progressive stance that challenged societal prejudices, making his evangelism not only a spiritual revolution but also a social one.

The theological foundation of Graham’s ministry was closely aligned with evangelical Protestantism, emphasizing born-again spirituality, scripture authority, and the necessity of personal conversion. His crusades often included altar calls, which became a hallmark of his evangelistic methodology. This approach nurtured a sense of urgency and personal commitment among attendees, fueling the growth of evangelical churches across America. Graham’s ability to communicate biblical truths in a relatable manner contributed significantly to the spread of evangelical Christianity in the 20th century and laid the groundwork for future televangelists and religious broadcasters.

Despite his traditional theological roots, Graham embraced media innovation, transforming the landscape of American evangelism. His pioneering use of television and radio allowed him to reach millions, turning religious sermons into mass media spectacles. This strategic adaptation helped sustain the evangelical movement through changing cultural tides and technological advances. However, Graham’s relationship with political figures also drew scrutiny, as critics argued that his influence might have intertwined church and state in ways that challenged secular principles. Nonetheless, Graham maintained a stance of neutrality in politics, despite occasional criticisms and controversies, emphasizing moral values rooted in Christian faith.

Furthermore, Billy Graham’s legacy persists in contemporary evangelicalism. His emphasis on personal conversion and societal morality continues to resonate within religious communities worldwide. Graham’s emphasis on reconciliation and social justice, exemplified through his efforts against racism, reflect a holistic approach to faith that integrates spirituality with social consciousness. His enduring influence is evident in the ongoing broadcasts of his sermons, the continued growth of evangelical churches, and the inspiration he provided to subsequent generations of pastors and evangelists.

In conclusion, Billy Graham epitomizes a transformative figure in the history of American and global Christianity. His pioneering use of media, ability to connect with a diverse audience, and unwavering commitment to evangelical doctrine have left an indelible mark on religious history. Analyzing his life illuminates the dynamic relationship between faith, technology, and society, offering valuable lessons for future religious movements seeking to adapt to changing cultural landscapes while remaining rooted in spiritual truth.

References

• Finstuen, A., Wills, A. B., & Wacker, G. (2017). Billy Graham American Pilgrim. New York: Oxford University Press.
• Trinity Broadcasting Network. (2016). Billy Graham classics. Retrieved from https://www.tbn.org
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