As I reflect on the passing of Reverend Billy Graham today, I realize that there are seven lessons he taught me. I believe these seven lessons are for all of us who preach and teach God's Word.
1. He taught us how to stay faithful to God and our calling.
Billy Graham never wavered from his calling to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He did not allow popularity or opposition to derail him from his call. He kept his eyes on Jesus.
2. He taught us the importance of integrity.
Billy Graham's ministry was untarnished by scandal. But this did not come accidentally. He developed intimacy with God. He created accountability relationships with godly men. He was never alone with a woman who was not his wife or family member. He was accountable for the ministry's finances. He practiced what he preached.
3. He taught us the importance of humility.
Billy was not perfect, but he did not allow world-wide fame go to his head. He did not forget his boyhood roots. He did not forget that he was a sinner saved by grace.
4. He taught us how to change methods without changing the message.
Billy Graham was willing to adopt and adapt methods that would help him relate to his audience. He was willing to change musical styles in his crusades. He was willing to embrace technology to share the Gospel. One thing he was not willing to do was to change the simple Gospel message of Jesus. This is a lesson for pastors and church members.
5. He taught us the importance of connecting new believers to a local church.
Billy tried to connect every new believer to a church in their neighborhood. He knew that people need the community of the local church to grow in their relationship with Jesus. It is sad that so many Christians have stopped being in community with others in the church. Billy understood that Jesus, who offers salvation, also promised to build His church (Matthew 16:18).
6. He taught to us to be leery of aligning ourselves with partisan politics.
Many politicians of both major parties respected Billy Graham. Yet, Graham would later confess that he got too close to partisan politics with President Richard Nixon. He vowed to never do it again. He came to realize that he represented Jesus, not a political party.
7. He taught us the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Billy Graham demonstrated the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ when preached faithfully. Millions of people heard him share the simple message of salvation. Only eternity knows how many souls came to faith in Jesus through the preaching of the Gospel.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7–8, ESV)
