Although COVID-19 has put people in a lot of distress this year, Franklin Graham told Christian Post that the Gospel has advanced powerfully. Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) has seen many indicate they have accepted Christ just this year.
1.7 Million Made A Decision For Christ
Evangelist Franklin Graham reported that through BGEA’s online ministries, 1.7 million people have indicated that they have made decisions for Christ so far this year.
In comparison with the previous year, there has been an increase in people turning to Christ. In 2019, Graham shared that 1.3 million they made a decision for Christ.
He stated, “I try to shy away from the questions on numbers. God’s the one who gives the increase. It’s not Franklin Graham and it’s not the institution.”
The worldwide crisis has cancelled almost all of Graham’s evangelistic events but they remained faithful in pursuing their goal. They found new ways to reach out and amazingly, more people have responded.
Franklin Graham
“I think there’s nothing normal about 2020. We’ve never gone through a pandemic in my lifetime. The world has never been locked down before,” Graham said. “It’s God who touches people’s hearts and opens up people’s eyes. The pandemic hasn’t stopped it. If anything, it’s advanced it.”
He added, “The people’s hearts have been softened a little bit. People who have not listened before are listening now. For evangelism, it may be one of the better years we’ve had.”
“I think they’re willing to listen to the Gospel. People are scared and afraid. When you give them the hope we have in Jesus Christ, they’re eager to accept that. When the world turns upside down is when they’re eager to listen.”
Church attendance may have dropped, but the evangelism numbers have increased. Christians that don’t value their faith may leave, but those who sincerely love God will endure.
“Bible-teaching churches have generally done very well and are full. The pews may not be full, but more people are watching online than those [who usually] attend the church,” he shared.
