The passing of an icon
T
he original meaning of the Greek word “eikon” was an image or representation, as Caesar’s image on a coin. The Apostle Paul calls Jesus Christ “the image of the invisible God,” the one who perfectly represents the being and nature of God. We are created in the image of God, and his goal for us is to be transformed into the image of Christ – to become like him.
Billy Graham had a huge impact on the world because he so wonderfully reflected the image of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a true icon.
My first memory of Billy Graham was listening to The Hour of Decision as a teenager in our home. I never saw him in person, but have followed his ministry with great interest as one of the greatest Christian leaders in history.
His life and message impacted millions. He preached to at least 215 million people in 185 countries around the world in 400 crusades over six decades, plus many more millions through radio and TV.
He was a spiritual advisor to 11 US presidents from Truman to Obama, and president Trump at- tended his funeral. What accounts for his remarkable influence and impact?
It began with his own commitment to Jesus Christ as a teenage farm boy.
As he developed as a preacher and evangelist, his outstanding godly character drew respect around the world.
• Complete confidence in God’s word.
When a close friend ridiculed him for being too simple and out of date, he wrestled with his trust in the Bible. There were things he could not understand or explain, yet he prayed, “Father, I am going to accept this as Thy Word – by faith!” A favourite phrase in his preaching was, “the Bible says,” and he spoke with unusual authority.
• Complete dependence on God. Early in his ministry a wealthy businessman offered to underwrite the cost of his crusades. Graham refused because he depended on the prayers of the thousands who sent small donations.
• Integrity of character.
He chose a modest salary rather than “love offerings” which could have made him very rich. His association held the highest standards of fiscal accountability. Other prominent leaders were plagued by moral failure, but Billy Graham maintained utmost faithfulness in his marriage and devotion to his family.
• Graham faithfully proclaimed the gospel. In 2005 he said, “I have one message: that Jesus Christ came, he died on a cross, he rose again and he asked us to repent of our sins and receive him by faith as Lord and Saviour, and if we do, we have forgiveness of all of our sins.”
• He spoke the truth in love. He often wept as he prayed for those attending his crusades. He spoke fearlessly against sin and called all to repentance, then passionately proclaimed the good news of forgiveness through Jesus.
Billy Graham was a great icon, an image-bearer of Jesus. His greatest desire would be to see you follow Jesus too and find the hope, forgiveness, freedom and purpose He gives.