For many of us who are disciples
of Christ the name Billy Graham is very familiar. Though in recent years he has shied away from
the limelight, his ministry has impacted the lives of many people throughout
the world. At the end of the Second
World War, Billy Graham began his ministry of preaching the gospel message to
millions, traveling from city to city, country to country. He spoke of God’s grace and mercy and he
called those in attendance to repentance of sin. The kingdom of God truly expanded and grew
through his ministry.
What is so special about
Billy Graham? We hear his name and
immediately we think of stadiums filled with people, thousands coming forward
to receive Christ or rededicate their lives to their Savior. Just the name Billy Graham brings to mind the
sense of man called by God to preach the Word to millions.
What is the difference
between Billy Graham and the “normal” disciple of Christ? Nothing.
Sure, Billy Graham was called to preach to millions. Sure, Billy Graham was called to travel the
world to speak to leaders of countries. But
Billy Graham still sins and is in need of the grace and mercy of God as much as
everyone else in the world. He is still
human.
Every disciple of Christ is
called to preach to everyone around them, a group which may only consist of a
few people. As disciples we are all
called to preach the gospel, whether or name is Joe Smith or Billy Graham. And in a real sense, every disciple of Christ
is called to be a Billy Graham where they live.
Join us this week as we study
the words of God through is servant James.
James 5:16-20 is a call for God’s people to action. No more sitting by idly waiting for something
to happen. We are called to be proactive
for the gospel, not just reactive. What
does this call look like? How can we
live out this call? How can we be
encouraged by God’s movement in “larger than life” figures like Billy Graham?
May we be prepared as the
Spirit speaks to us and may our hearts be softened to His leading.
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