The Passing of Billy Graham
The following are the notes to the discussion found at this link (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/363023287530719/?id=100014819433180) for anyone who would like to study the subject more in depth.
(Before we present the information we have I want to address the issue that many would say it is unkind to say anything negative when someone dies. Many feel it is disrespectful to the family members. Well, I will say we mean no disrespect to anyone, but the truth needs to be told. When a preacher dies, especially someone as famous as Billy Graham, those unfamiliar with his teachings may conduct searches on the internet concerning the person. In this case many young people may be unfamiliar with Billy Graham because most of his huge crusades were held before they were even born. There is much talk of his “mantle” being passed down, as we will discuss later, so many will want to know what this means. So, it is not unkind, but rather speaking the truth in love to present the information we have gathered).
We are going to begin with sister Tammy discussing some examples of his ecumenism:
Here we can see some of Billy Graham’s ecumenical leanings and there are many more in the other discussion that we did on Billy Graham. (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/257249564774759/). I want to share these few points here to show how these twist and distort the true message of salvation.
1) Billy Graham’s efforts towards ecumenism began early in his crusades. In fact, as early as his third major crusade. In 1950 a man named Willis Haymaker joined the team and the following was part of his duties: “He would also call on the local Catholic bishop and other clerics to acquaint them with crusade plans, and invite them to the meetings. They would usually appoint a priest to attend and report back. This was years before Vatican II’s openness to protestants but we were concerned to let the Catholic bishop see that my goal was not to get people to leave their churches, rather I wanted them to commit their lives to Christ.” P. 162 of his autobiography, “Just As I Am”.
2) This is the link to show Billy Graham’s ecumenical bent concerning Mormonism - https://www.deseretnews.com/article/900012071/when-billy-graham-acknowledged-glenn-beck-as-a-mormon-and-christian.html
3) In 1952 the Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph reported Graham’s own words: "Many of the people who reach a decision for Christ at our meetings have joined the Catholic Church and we have received commendations from Catholic publications for the revived interest in their Church following our campaigns. This happened both in Boston and Washington. After all, one of our prime purposes is to help the churches in a community. If after we move on, the local churches do not feel the efforts of these meetings in increased membership and attendance, then our crusade would have to be considered a failure." (http://jimdukeperspective.com/story-behind-billy-graham/)
4) At that time [March 1950], Protestantism in New England was weak, due in part to theological differences within some denominations, the influence of Unitarian ideas in other denominations, and the strength of the Roman Catholic Church. In spite of all that, a number of Roman Catholic priests and Unitarian clergy, together with some of their parishioners, came to the meetings along with those from Evangelical churches. With my limited Evangelical background, this was a further expansion of my own ecumenical outlook. I now began to make friends among people from many different backgrounds and to develop a spiritual love for their clergy (Graham, Just As I Am, p. 167).
5) I lost a very dear friend (Jesuit Fulton Sheen), and since that time, the whole relationship between me and my work, and the Roman Catholic Church has changed. They open their arms to welcome us and we have the support of the Catholic Church almost everywhere we go. And I think that we must come to the place where we keep our eyes on Jesus Christ, not on what denomination or what church or what group we belong to. [Interview with Robert Schuller, June 8, 1997]
Thank you for those excellent examples, sister Tammy.
And, just to explain a bit concerning Fulton Sheen: he was an American bishop (later archbishop) of the Catholic Church known for his preaching and especially his work on television and radio. Sheen was a faithful son of Rome. In his book ‘Treasure in Clay,’ Sheen said that one of his spiritual secrets was to offer Mass every Saturday "in honor of the Blessed Mother to solicit her protection of my priesthood."
In his 1997 autobiography, Graham described his first meeting with Sheen, though he doesn’t give the exact date. He says he was traveling on a train from Washington to New York and was just drifting off to sleep when Sheen knocked on the sleeping compartment and asked to "come in for a chat and a prayer" (Graham, Just As I Am, p. 692). Graham says: "We talked about our ministries and our common commitment to evangelism, and I told him how grateful I was for his ministry and his focus on Christ… We talked further and we prayed; and by the time he left, I felt as if I had known him all my life." (https://www.wayoflife.org/database/grahamcompromise.html)
In the next section of this discussion I wanted to mention some statements made by Catholics about Billy Graham either before or after his passing. I will not comment on most of these because they absolutely speak for themselves and demonstrate Billy Graham’s ecumenism beyond a shadow of a doubt.
In an article at cruxnow.com, a Catholic website, we read: “Graham welcomed representatives of other denominations, including Catholics, to attend his crusades. In many places local Catholic authorities welcomed him and formed pastoral follow-up programs to welcome lapsed Catholics who were prompted by the preacher to return to the church. Additionally, the article states, “In 1964, Cardinal Richard J. Cushing of Boston said that no Catholic who heard Graham preach “can do anything but become a better Catholic.” (https://cruxnow.com/obituary/2018/02/21/rev-graham-dies-world-famous-evangelist-admired-americans/)
Here is an excerpt from a letter written in 1965 by Father Cuthbert E. Allen who was Executive Vice-President of Catholic Belmont Abbey College at the time. He stated: “Billy Graham gave an inspiring and a theologically sound address that may have been given by Bishop Fulton J. Sheen or any other Catholic preacher. I have followed Billy Graham's career and I must emphasize that he has been more Catholic than otherwise, and I say this not in a partisan manner but as a matter of fact.” (http://seawaves.us/na/web4/smoke.html#Chapter_Eight)
James Martin, an American Jesuit priest, a writer, and editor-at-large of the Jesuit magazine America tweeted: “RIP #BillyGraham, a towering figure in American history, who would no doubt prefer to be remembered for what he truly was: a good Christian."Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York, said Graham epitomized “what’s best in American Christianity.” Dolan, who attended Graham’s funeral, said Graham continued America’s historical tradition of “spiritual renewal and social service.” “He’s particularly refreshing today when religion is often abused and perverted for the cause of hatred and violence. He would always use it as an occasion of harmony, amity and respect.” (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/03/02/what-to-expect-from-famed-evangelist-billy-grahams-funeral/?utm_term=.045579c8201b)
And, just to note concerning the funeral: the guest list included a who’s who of those popular in white evangelicalism, including entertainers Kathie Lee Gifford and Steven Curtis Chapman; pastors Rick Warren and Joel Osteen; popular speakers Ravi Zacharias and Beth Moore; and political figures Ben Carson and Sarah Palin. Additionally, more than 100 international delegates representing Russian Orthodox, Greek Orthodox, Catholic and evangelical traditions also attended. (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/03/02/what-to-expect-from-famed-evangelist-billy-grahams-funeral/?utm_term=.045579c8201b)
(And, there are many more examples I could give in this section, but I am just going to give one more. It is lengthy, but I think it highlights many of the points we and others have tried, and continue to try and make, concerning warning about Billy Graham and his ministry).
The following statements are from an article entitled, “The Rev. Billy Graham, friend to Catholics,” written by Father Jerome Vereb: “In my former role as an official of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity, I had the opportunity to get to know the late Dr. Billy Graham, particularly on the occasion of his first meeting with Pope John Paul II.
Three concerns united them (Pope John Paul II and Billy Graham):
1. The need to bring comfort to persecuted Christians, whether they were in communist nations or under some other totalitarian regime. They discussed that many times.
2. Providing ways for clergy around the world to be sufficiently familiar with the Scriptures to teach them properly to others.
3. Making time in their demanding schedules for meditation, so they could come into the presence of Jesus. They discussed different forms of prayer. Each had overwhelming demands of travel and preaching, and they each knew that they had to know Jesus before they could share Jesus. I remember them saying that to each other.
Whenever (Graham) prepared crusades in various international cities, he introduced himself to the local diocesan bishop and invited Catholics to participate in leadership and preparation for the event. When Catholics came forward in response to his call to give their lives to Jesus, the Graham organization arranged for follow-up by a Catholic parish.
He also put his organizational experience at the service of the Catholic Church. I know of his involvement in the support of papal events around the world.
It is not surprising that among his closest friends from the Catholic world was Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen. As each of them engaged in evangelization from a different stream of Christianity, they shared an underlying spirituality of humility and meekness that supports the cause of Christian unity.
When Billy Graham died Feb. 21, he left a list of people whom he wanted to have invited to his funeral. Among them were many priests and bishops from the United States, including the papal nuncio, Archbishop Christophe Pierre and Cardinal Timothy Dolan. He regarded them not just as ecumenical partners in a diplomatic sense, but as his co-laborers in the vineyard of the Lord.”(http://www.pittsburghcatholic.org/columns/the-rev-billy-graham-friend-to-catholics-46842136?profile=1020)
(And, as I said, these examples all just speak for themselves. I realize throughout the discussion we may repeat points such as Graham sending many people at his crusades to Catholic parishes, but these are all from different sources so there is no denying this fact.
Next, sister Tammy will speak about some of the accolades and awards Billy Graham received and what God’s Word has to say about friendship with the world. Then, she will speak about two articles concerning Rick Warren and his association with Billy Graham).
Many people have been deceived into believing that Billy Graham is one of the greatest preachers of all time. There are many sources, however, that say contrary to this, they show Billy Graham as an apostate working with other religious systems including that of Catholicism.
Since 1959, The Franciscan International Award has honored men, women and organizations who symbolize the spirit and the apostolic zeal of St. Francis of Assisi. Previous recipients of the award include: Dr. Billy Graham for True Ecumenism (1972).
History of the Franciscan International Award/past recipients -Each year the Order of Friars Minor Conventual presents an award to an individual or to an organization which is committed to serving the Ideals of Christ, especially as they were proclaimed by St. Francis of Assisi. This Franciscan International Award is presented yearly by the Conventual Franciscans on behalf of Franciscan Retreats and Spirituality Center, Prior Lake, Minnesota.
The Franciscan Order was founded in 1209 as an Order within the Roman Catholic Church by St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis had many devoted friends and benefactors among the inhabitants of his native Italy. Many of these were especially honored by being awarded honorary membership with the Franciscan Order. So, from the very beginning of the Order, individuals who served others in an outstanding way were given a "Franciscan Award" for their acts of charity. That custom endures to the present day and was the basis for reestablishing the Franciscan International Award In 1959.
Billy Graham Made Gallup's 'Most Admired' List for a Record 61st Time. Gallup annually lists after asking more than 1,000 Americans which man and woman in the world they admired most. The poll has two criteria: the man or woman must be living, and the open-ended question is asked with no prompting, meaning those whose names are in the headlines are likely choices. (http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=23273)
He and his wife, Ruth, also received a Congressional Gold Medal on May 2nd, 1996. He was humble, but he still went and received it. "A Congressional Gold Medal is an award bestowed by the United States Congress; the Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom are the highest civilian awards in the United States." (Wikipedia) –
Graham received the Hollywood Star in 1989– he said he hopes that years from now, "somebody will come and say, 'Who was Billy Graham, what did he stand for?' Perhaps a child will ask his parents or grandparents, and they will tell him that {Billy Graham} was not a celebrity, not a star, but a simple preacher of the gospel and that they might explain the gospel to him and that many might find Christ in that." (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Graham#Awards_and_honors)
Friendship with the world makes one an enemy of God, also the Bible says, "Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets." - Luke 6:26. Now am not saying that overseers according to the truth are not to live a respectful life toward outsiders, 1 Tim. 3:7 “Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” The way one conducts their faith and walk with God does need to be lived in the faith so that even though you are not loved by the majority of the world, that they can see no blame etc. for the testimony of Jesus, but to be admired by a world that hate God and are enemies really shows the compromise with the faith. God told sinners to repent and believe that Jesus is the Only way of salvation, when this truth is heard it is an offence to the world that is unbelieving, it is offensive because it crucifies them, tells them that their morals cannot save them and their good works, but that Jesus alone can and does forgive. It tells people that the pope holds no power of salvation and that he has a false gospel leading many astray. The truth will expose the error. These we can clearly see that Billy Graham did not do. He told people that Catholicism was ok to remain in and that these had the same Jesus!
I just want to say that anyone really giving the true Gospel of Jesus Christ will not be admired by the world. I am not saying that a true man or woman of God should not desire to be living respectfully in this sin sick world. A true man or women of God will not be loved by the world if they are preaching the true Gospel as it is an offence to the broad path to destruction which many are on, sad to say.
Rick warren – role model – article - http://time.com/5169730/billy-graham-rick-warren/
I recently read an article concerning the death of Billy Graham that was titled 'Billy Was My Hero.' Pastor Rick Warren Remembers His Mentor Billy Graham.
This article is enough to make straight hair curl! So many things wrong with this and anyone who understands the problem with Rick Warren and his PEACE plan, well, then they would see how much is wrong with endorsing people like Billy Graham as though he is a great evangelist!
This is just a part from the article and says - Once Warren flew to Graham’s home in North Carolina after Graham asked him for an update on his PEACE Plan, a global initiative for churches to change things like poverty and disease in their local communities. “He said, ‘Rick this is the greatest vision I’ve ever heard, I just wish I was around long enough to see it happen’,” Warren remembers. “I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who received that kind of encouragement.”
There are many problems with the PEACE plan of Rick Warren and I will list a few here from an article exposing this just so this can further reiterate these issues and encourage you to study what the enemy is using to deceived people into the acceptance of a false peace and one world religion.
Protege of Peter Drucker, to create consumer-driven mega-church model
Cited as the father of the Emergent Church Movement.
A strong advocate of contemplative prayer, and encourages pastors to use Centering and Breath Prayers.
Signed on to “A Common Word Between Us” that seeks common ground between Muslims and Christians.
Gave the invocation at the presidential inauguration in January 2009, praying to Isa of the Qur’an along with Jesus.
New Age proponent Leonard Sweet, who calls himself an emergent church leader, trained many of Warren’s church leaders and pastors at the 2008 Saddleback Small Groups Conference.
Uses The Message paraphrase of the Bible for much of his writings.
Promoted on the “speakers corner” of the Islamic Society of North America, an arm of the Muslim Brotherhood and a financier of the Hamas terror organization.
Supports the work of Tony Blair and his global spiritualization movement.
Supports the “Catholics Come Home” campaign.
In spite of photo evidence, denied his involvement in King’s Way, a bridge-building movement with Muslims at Saddleback.
Creator of the controversial P.E.A.C.E. Plan
As part of the P.E.A.C.E. plan, his top missions pastor was photographed teaching that Muslims don’t have to convert to Christianity to be saved.
Created the The Daniel Plan: God’s Prescription for Your Health to get the folks at Saddleback Church healthy. To create his alleged biblical plan, he elicited the aid of unbelievers — Dr. Mehmet Oz., a Sufi Muslim, Dr. Mark Hyman, a secular Jew and New Ager, and Dr. Daniel Amen, a professing Christian who dabbles in Eastern mysticism.
Promoter of the problematic The Bible, Son of God and A.D. miniseries, and packaged church sermons and video Bible studies.
Gathered with the Pope at the Vatican, along with Russell Moore, Muslims and Mormons to promote unity around family issues.
Another article I have read recently stating the problems again with this affiliation and deception especially as much truth is mentioned within this article but yet again we must be careful to examine the doctrine and fruit of all these ministers claiming to be for the Lord. Rick Warren Says Billy Graham Inspired Him to Witness to LGBT, Muslims, Atheists Despite Criticism but then goes on further in the article to say this "In the 1950 and '60s, Billy insisted that all his crusades be integrated. In some southern cities in America, the Graham crusades were the first public events to be racially integrated. But Billy also insisted that his crusades be religiously integrated," Warren said.
"He put Catholics and Protestants, Calvinists and Charismatics, Fundamentalist and Evangelicals, Liberals and Conservatives, all on the platform together. He was criticized for it, but he knew that God blesses unity and harmony."
Thank you so much for all that excellent information, sister Tammy.
(Next, I want to spend some time mentioning those in the “evangelical world” who commented on Billy Graham’s passing. I will read their statements and give a short summarization of their false teachings and associations.
But, first, I want to say that I recently read the following statement by someone who has done a tremendous amount of research on Billy Graham and I believe this to be true: “He largely invented “ecumenical evangelism,” which has done so much to build the apostate “one world church.” And, the listeners who know anything about the people I will mention will recognize they are helping build the apostate “one world church” also.
Unless otherwise noted, the following quotes in this section are all from one of the two following articles): (https://www.yahoo.com/news/christians-wrestle-billy-graham-apos-225220778.html) ; (http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/03/02/billy-graham-remembered-as-faithful-most-important-evangelist-by-religious-leaders.html)
TD Jakes tweeted: “Today, we lost a General in the Kingdom of God! You have earned your rest, sir. Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Well, TD Jakes is a WOF/prosperity preacher who denies the Trinity. He has appeared on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday and he spoke at the prayer service along with Catholic priests, imams, and rabbis on July 8, 2016 after several Dallas Police officers were shot). (http://www.supersoul.tv/supersoul-sunday/bishop-t-d-jakes-how-to-use-your-time-effectively-and-purposefully) (https://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-dallas-morning-news/20160709/281569470057770)
Joyce Meyer tweeted: “While it was sad to hear the news of Billy Graham passing, I am rejoicing that he is now home in heaven. Billy was a great man of God who made a tremendous impact all over the globe. His love for people and integrity had a great impact on my life and so many others!” (Well, Joyce Meyer teaches classic Word of Faith false doctrine which includes such error as: Jesus went to hell to pay for our sins; Christians are little gods, and Jesus was the first born again man. She also teaches that Christians can speak things into existence). (http://longfortruth.blogspot.ca/2014/07/6-reasons-you-should-stop-listening-to.html?m=1)(https://isnotsatire.wordpress.com/2018/02/19/you-can-call-things-into-existence-like-god-does-says-joyce-meyer/)
And, then we have Beth Moore who said: “There simply will never be another Billy Graham. What a gift of God to this world.” (Problems with Beth Moore include her recognition of the Catholic church as part of the body of Christ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6y7zvj0LzI); she has a weekly program on TBN (http://www.bethmoore.org/TV?emid=weeklyupdate-video1-BethMooreTV-20151230); and, she teaches a combination of Word of Faith and self-help philosophy). (http://www.4discernment.com/woman-2-woman.html)
Russell Moore, president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, part of the Southern Baptist Convention, said it’s almost “impossible” to count the number of people he knows who have become Christians through Graham’s work. In an interview with Fox News, Moore praised the authenticity of Graham, saying he was someone who was the same in both his public and private life. In addition, Moore sent out a tweet that stated: “Billy Graham was, in my view, the most important evangelist since the Apostle Paul.” (Well, Russell Moore is quite ecumenical himself having attended a conference on marriage and the family at the Vatican in November 2014, along with Rick Warren). (http://religionnews.com/2014/11/03/vatican-to-host-religious-leaders-tackle-marriage-family-issues/) (And, then, he stated this to a gathering of Evangelical leaders during the “Evangelicals for Life” event held in January of 2016. “Our absence is a shame (speaking about March for Life events). We don’t need any less ‘Ave Maria,’ but we need some more ‘Amazing Grace’ in the mix as well”). (https://juicyecumenism.com/2016/01/13/35331/).
Greg Laurie: "I don’t think anyone will ever take Billy’s place. But we can all, in our own way, follow his example and proclaim the same Gospel as he did." (Well, here is an example to show that Billy Graham was confused about the true gospel. In 1967 he received an honorary degree from Catholic Belmont Abbey College, located about miles 15 from Charlotte, NC, and which I mentioned earlier in the discussion. At the ceremony Graham stated the following: “Finally, the way of salvation has not changed. I know how the ending of the book will be. THE GOSPEL THAT BUILT THIS SCHOOL AND THE GOSPEL THAT BRINGS ME HERE TONIGHT IS STILL THE WAY TO SALVATION” (“Belmont Abbey Confers Honorary Degree,” Paul Smith, Gazette staff reporter, The Gastonia Gazette, Gastonia, North Carolina, Nov. 22, 1967). (But, as we have stated repeatedly in these discussions, the Catholic gospel is one based on their sacramental system; one that denies the sufficiency of Christ’s death on the cross. It is another gospel).
And, apparently Laurie believes in following Graham’s footsteps concerning his own crusades. For one example, in 2003 Laurie held a crusade in Newcastle, Australia. It was reported on Australian TV that they had ‘every form of Christian church--whether it’s Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Assemblies of God, Seventh Day Adventist--they’re all united in this event.’ (http://www.practicalbible.com/top-stories/greg-lauries-abominable-ecumenical-follow-up) Additionally, when Laurie met Graham in 1995, he said, “I felt like he was the closest person I’d ever met to Jesus Christ.” (https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2018/02/billy-graham-death/553850/) (Well, that obviously is a completely inappropriate statement).
James Dobson, founder of ‘Focus on the Family’ in 1977, which he led until 2003, said, “It’s not often that you can say someone truly changed the world, but when it comes to Billy, he changed the face of eternity as well. Through his crusades, he helped turn many millions of hearts to Christ.” (Now, I find this to be quite odd because we have no way of knowing how many people, any time the gospel is presented, truly repent and are born again. James Dobson doesn’t know these millions of people and has no way of knowing if they truly know the Lord and are living for Him. This is all besides the issue of the decision cards of many thousands being sent to Catholic parishes and/or Jewish synagogues, which is the same as saying we’re giving you over to be led down the broad road to hell. Additionally, we can see by Dobson’s statement, after the death of John Paul II, that he is quite ecumenical himself: "Today's passing of Pope John Paul II is an immeasurable loss – not only to our friends of the Roman Catholic faith, but to the entire world. We found common cause with him and with the 'culture of life' he espoused so eloquently; the legacy he left us is to be cherished. While we grieve the profound loss of this remarkable man, we celebrate his life, his ministry and his undeniable impact on the world.”
(https://web.archive.org/web/20170317071704/http://www.charitywire.com/charity63/05922.html) (Well, these statements lifting up any man, much less a pope, just make us ill and I hope the listeners feel the same way).
Paula White, a spiritual adviser to President Trump and a WOF/prosperity preacher, said, “This man truly lived out Christ-likeness,” adding that when she met with Graham it was like she was having a conversation with Jesus himself. “His words were powerful and profound, but it was the presence of God in his life.” (Well, first of all, we don’t say having a conversation with a mere man is like having a conversation with Jesus. That’s ridiculous). And, Paula White has been a counselor and friend to Pres. Trump for more than 16 years. She had this to say about him: “Our president 100 percent is a Christian who understands receiving faith by the grace of the Lord, Jesus.” (Well, so, I have no confidence in her discernment. As we have stated in other discussions we don’t know what is in Trump’s heart, but we see absolutely no fruit which would make us believe he is born again. We are not declaring his eternal destination, but we pray he would truly repent). (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2017/09/09/trump-pastor-paula-white-the-president-100-percent-is-a-christian-a-person-of-repentance/?utm_term=.37e1443468b3)
Samuel Rodriguez, the president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, praised Graham as the “quintessential unifier,” pointing, in particular, to the integration of his crusades at a time when segregation was prevalent. His sermons about reaching the world with the gospel inspired Rodriguez to do the same. “No Christian leader in modern history brought more unity to the Christian body than Billy Graham,” he said. (Well, more like false unity to the false Christian body. And, Samuel Rodriguez knows all about false unity seeing as he spoke at the Together 2016 event held in July 2016 at the National Mall in Washington, DC, which was a completely ecumenical undertaking). (http://herescope.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/resetting-reformation.html)
Jentezen Franklin stated: “Upon hearing him preach for the first time one could immediately realize how dearly this man loved Jesus and wanted others to experience that same love – it overflowed from the very depths of his heart. His passion and commitment to sharing the love of Jesus all around the world was instrumental in my own life, inspiring me as I began my ministry.” (Well, Jentezen Franklin is a WOF preacher who focuses on fasting; he believes angels become unemployed when we fail to pray (http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/526028.Jentezen_Franklin) ; but most concerning is a clip I shared on Facebook not too long ago in which he states, “Let’s come together, we need each other, the Baptist, the Methodist, the Catholic, anybody preaching Jesus, preaching His grace, His blood, the death, the burial, the resurrection, is my brother, is my sister, and I’m not gonna fight you. We don’t have to agree on everything. Let’s see each other through the mercy, through the blood, that’s what America needs, that’s what the world needs.” (Wow. Doesn’t this sound like something Billy Graham could have said?)
Joel Osteen tweeted the following: “Billy Graham has always been and will always be a hero in our home. Next to my own father, Reverend Graham was the most humble and gracious man I ever knew. I am honored to call him a friend and a mentor. Victoria and I will miss him dearly.” (So, Rick Warren and Joel Osteen consider Billy Graham to be their mentor? My, oh, my).
Now, there were obviously several people who spoke at the funeral and we don’t have time to mention all those, but I did want to mention the remarks made by Billy Graham’s daughter, Anne Graham Lotz. Here is part of her eulogy: “When he died, that was something very strategic from heaven’s point of view…I know that before the foundations of the world were laid, Feb. 21, 2018 was the date that God chose to take my father home. Why?” She went on to explain that Jewish liturgy has February 21 as the day the portion of the Torah dealing with the law of Moses is read. Then she said, “Moses was the great liberator. He brought millions of people out of bondage, slavery, got them to the edge of the promised land, and God took him to heaven…My father was also a great liberator. He brought millions of people out of bondage to sin, and gets us to the edge of heaven, the edge of the promised land, and God has called him home.”
(http://www.wbtv.com/clip/14168816/video-anne-graham-lotz-speaks-at-her-fathers-funeral) (Well, I find it quite odd that she would reference Jewish liturgy because as you have stated before on these discussions, sister Tammy, Judaism is a wicked religion based on what they believe about Jesus. That he’s in hell and so forth. And, then, yet another person who assumes the numbers of people saved when we really have no idea. But, to say her father “brought millions of people out of bondage to sin” himself ascribes abilities to him no mortal man possesses. Rather shocking, actually).
Now, I want to read part of a post on Frances Swaggart’s Facebook page from 2-21-18: “My family and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Reverend Billy Graham. As my husband said on his program this morning, “He was, no doubt, one of the great assets to this nation and to the world for that matter.” (You know, it is just beyond me how a ministry known for warning about false teachers, false movements such as New Age, false religions such as Jehovah’s Witness and Mormonism, could be so in the dark about Billy Graham’s ecumenism and universalism. His beliefs and practices are so well documented in videos and books such as Dr. Cathy Burns’ book, “Billy Graham and His Friends.” No one has any excuse to be misinformed on this matter except that many are burying their heads in the sand).
(Now, for the last person in this section of the discussion, I want to mention some statements made by Kenneth Copeland. These statements will segue nicely into the next section concerning prophecies about revivals and mantles).
So, in the afternoon of Feb. 21 Kenneth Copeland stated, “Most people don’t know of the very close relationship between Billy Graham and Oral Roberts because in those days (1967) it seemed as those the doctrine was so far apart…I want to pray today the prayer and to pick up the prayer that Billy Graham prayed.” He said, “I’ve been praying that we might have a spiritual awakening. I think that becomes possible only as individuals surrender their lives afresh and anew to Christ.” Kenneth Copeland prayed a prayer in agreement with Billy Graham’s statement. Then, he went on to say, “If you’ve never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, this is the moment to do it. Don’t wait another moment. For you see here’s the thing you need to realize; Jesus did all the hard part. He went through that horrible, horrible unthinkable, unbelievable amount of suffering, not only in His physical body, but He stepped out of that body into the jaws of hell, and He suffered the penalty there.” He said a few more things and, then finished up with this: “Thank God for this man's life. Thank God for what He opened the door for Jesus to personally do in this nation." (https://www.facebook.com/CopelandNetwork/videos/1806072066110857/) (And, I am sure most of the listeners already know Kenneth Copeland is a WOF teacher who falsely teaches that Jesus suffered in hell, but we want to highlight the fact that it isn’t a coincidence that all the people we have mentioned who have various false teachings and associations all have lifted up Billy Graham. And, then, he thanks God for what He opened the door for Jesus to personally do in this nation? Well, I would remind the listener of the statement we shared earlier that “Billy Graham largely invented “ecumenical evangelism,” which has done so much to build the apostate “one world church.” These types of statements show us, definitively, that those following WOF are bringing another Jesus. Additionally, I wanted to mention concerning the relationship between Billy Graham and Oral Roberts that Billy Graham gave the dedication address for Oral Roberts University in 1967). (https://www.oru.edu/billygraham/) (And, then, when Oral Roberts died in 2009, Billy Graham stated, “Oral Roberts was a man of God, and a great friend in ministry. I loved him as a brother. We had many quiet conversations over the years”). (https://billygraham.org/story/billy-graham-franklin-graham-react-to-passing-of-oral-roberts/)
(I know I spent a good bit of time on this section about false teachers praising Billy Graham and some may wonder why, but I think it is important to show the state of the modern church. True believers would correctly designate it as lukewarm, at the very minimum, and the fault lies mainly at the feet of these false shepherds).
But, before moving on I want to read Ezekiel 22:25-27:“There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof. Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.”
Now, I want to begin on the section concerning false prophecies about revival and mantles.
The first example is from a Sid Roth program (https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=53&v=Bkv0hWqavk0) in which he reads a vision about Billy Graham a woman named Kathie Walters had a couple of years ago: “The next thing I saw was Billy Graham entering into what looked like a huge heavenly stadium where there were thousands and thousands of people. As he entered I heard cheering and cheering. It was louder than any packed stadium I’ve ever heard. They were waiting. And, they were all the thousands who had been saved during Billy Graham’s ministry.” (And, yet again, we have someone assuming numbers of people saved under a person’s ministry when we really have no idea. Also, this focus on man where she supposedly sees a huge heavenly stadium full of people waiting to thank a person. I am just shaking my head. You know, the Bible does speak of believers receiving crowns, and in Rev. 4:10-11 we see that the 24 elders laid their crowns at Jesus’ feet, and we imagine that all the saints will do so as well. But, you know, in the presence of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, any good deeds, any acts of service, any work for the Lord we have performed will just pale in comparison to Him and what He has done.
And, then more red flags because at her website she says the miraculous power of God, the Angels, and heavenly visitations are supposed to be a normal part of our lives). (https://kathiewaltersministry.com/) Additionally, I read an article on Elijah’s List she wrote a few days after Pres. Trump’s inauguration. She said the night before the ceremony she had been lifted up in the spirit and she saw the angel Gabriel and thousands of other angels at the inauguration. Some were mingling with the crowd and some were standing shoulder to shoulder on a glass wall she saw surrounding the whole area. Then she said that the ones on the wall were shorter, had dark hair and looked Italian to her, but that she hadn’t figured out yet why God sent Italian angels to Washington DC. (http://elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=17403) (Now, my intention is never to be unkind when we discuss people and their statements, but sometimes we just have to say what on earth?!)
Later, in the video Sid Roth says, “Many prophets have had words that when Billy Graham is promoted to heaven the mantle on him will fall on many people throughout the world and I believe it’s going to take you beyond what he did.” (We have heard many in the NAR speak of mantles so let’s discuss this topic for a minute. The main place the Bible mentions mantles concerns Elijah and Elisha in 1 Kings 19. Many of these prophetic types mainly focus on the Old Testament, and we are not saying we should ignore the OT, but we are in the New Covenant and we need to examine the New Testament concerning God’s instructions for this dispensation. Not everything described in the Bible is a directive for, or applies, to us. For example, Deut. 22:11 says, “Thou shalt not wear a garment of divers sorts, as of woollen and linen together.” We don’t have to concern ourselves with that instruction today. But, rather than receiving mantles, which are not mentioned in the NT, we read of gifts given to believers in chapters such as Romans 12 and 1 Cor. 12. These gifts are to be used for spreading the gospel and for serving others, for example. We are told not to neglect our gifts and to stir ourselves up in our gifts).
Another example concerns Chuck Pierce, CheAhn, Dutch Sheets and others who are gathering in Phoenix, AZ, for the Passover Glory Festival from March 29th to April 1st. Those organizing this event promoted it in an Elijah List article, stating the following: “Billy Graham recently passed away and it has been prophesied that once he does his mantle for mass harvest would be released to many. It was also prophesied that once both Oral Roberts and Billy Graham died a new awakening would hit America. Well we are now in that time frame! All the signs are pointing to an Awakening. The question is, are you positioned and ready? Ready or not it’s about to hit like a wave across this great nation.” (But, as one of our dear sisters commented when I posted about this event on Facebook a few days ago, she doesn’t want this mantle! And, we agree wholeheartedly!)
Moving along, Lou Engle wrote on the day of Graham’s death, “It is my conviction that his passing is the signpost of a new day of evangelism and stadium Christianity breaking forth in America again.” For several years the Lord has been alerting us that Billy Graham’s death would mark an important shift in the earth. (http://www.thecall.com/article/briefing-021-billy-grahams-mantle) (I am sure most of the listeners would remember that Lou Engle kissed the feet of the Catholic leader, Matteo Calisi, at the Azusa 2016 gathering which was held at the Los Angeles coliseum).
(https://amredeemed.com/signs-of-the-end/lou-engle-of-the-call-prostrates-himself-kisses-foot-of-catholic-leader-as-act-of-reconciliation/) (Something else we should note concerning this event is that Billy Graham’s grandson, Will Graham, told his grandfather about this event which was held in the same stadium Billy Graham preached at in 1963. Billy Graham’s response to this news from his grandson was read at the event and is as follows: “I remember preaching in that stadium. It is good that this event is happening." When asked about his mantle of evangelism, Billy Graham answered: "It is not about me. It's only about the glory of God. It's only if we stay focused on Jesus and the cross”).
(https://www.facebook.com/ywamkona/posts/1279476935414733) (Now, right here, some will think, this is wonderful! He is saying stay focused on Jesus and the cross. And, we’ve never said he failed to tell people about Jesus and the cross, but the problem is the mixture. We’ve shown that by his third crusade in 1950, he was already working with Catholics. I mean, what cross are you preaching when you allow that people who deny the finished work of the cross and believe they must achieve salvation through their sacraments, are also saved? It is a damnable, unholy mixture and we cannot be too strong about this! And, sister Tammy, I know you had a few points you wanted to add here).
So why is this a false gospel of billy graham is portraying? – why is ecumenism another gospel?
The reason Ecumenism is another Gospel is that is gives another Jesus that says it is ok to be all under the same God when we have another faith, the idea that one can join with a religious system and say they are both serving God makes it another gospel. There is only one true faith and this is not mixed with works, man’s doing, false gods etc. It is simply Jesus alone, His death for sin, His burial and resurrection. There is no other Gospel message, Jesus finished the work at the cross so anyone adding to or taking away from this truth is giving out another jesus.
In the book of Galatians chapters 1:8 we see Paul warning the believers here of any coming with another gospel - But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
And later in chapter 3 asked who had bewitched them! –
Galatians 3:1 - O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
It is not a joining point, it is a matter of fighting the good fight of the faith. We never heard Paul say to these believers that we should build the broken bridge to reconciliation with those saying contrary to the true message of Christ! He said any bringing another gospel were accursed.
Thank you, sister Tammy.
And, to continue with the false prophecies: In an article from the Elijah’s List, Lana Vawser, a “prophetess” from Brisbane, Australia, shared the following: “Two years ago, I had a dream and the Lord told me that the time was coming soon where Billy Graham would be called home…At the end of this dream, a prophetic decree was made: "When Billy Graham dies, a DOUBLE PORTION of the Elisha anointing will be released upon the earth!"
As this decree was made the atmosphere was electric. That is the only way I can describe it. It was electric with the power of the Holy Spirit decreeing the end of an era and the beginning of a NEW ERA – the ERA of the GREATEST HARVEST AND MOVE OF THE SPIRIT upon the earth that we had EVER seen.
This decree heralded a time coming to the earth of great increase of signs, wonders and miracles unlike anything we have ever seen that would accompany the pure proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is a great awakening and returning to the beauty, power and simplicity of the Gospel to usher in an incredible harvest of souls. It's awakening not only the evangelists, but awakening the fire of evangelism within the hearts of all Believers. It's the anointing of Billy Graham falling upon a generation of people. The decree established such a branding over this new era that the signs, wonders and miracles that would accompany the proclamation of the Word of God, would be UNPRECEDENTED.” (http://elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=19725) (However, Lana Vawser is a false prophetess with the NAR. On May 25, 2015 there was an article on Elijah’s List entitled: "United States, You are Pregnant with a Glory Story and Destiny Gates are Opening!" Part of the article is as follows: “Just recently I have been feeling a longing on the heart of God for His people to not give up on the United States of America…Suddenly I heard the words ‘Seven mountains of culture’ (media, education, arts, religion, business, government, family). ‘I want to release My people into these seven mountains to bring LIFE to these mountains and see My nation TURNED AROUND, but My people must be in position.’” (http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=14746) (All of this is rubbish, plain and simple. People who are looking for miracles, signs and wonders, are setting themselves up to be deceived by the antichrist, no two ways about it).
Here is part of a prophecy given by Kim Clement on December 30, 2006: “A release of the gift of Faith has been given to the people of God. In the death of Billy Graham and Oral Roberts, a veil shall be torn that shall bring evangelism to the earth as never before…A departure of great men that shall release an acceleration upon this nation and the church, who shall see the Lord in a way, and salvation shall be the order of the day in streets, in factories, on buses, on trains, and in planes. God says, “I’m about to take over the marketplace, and you are the people that shall bring this to pass,’ says the Lord.” (http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=4896) (Well, the talk about taking over the marketplace obviously falls under the Seven Mountain Mandate umbrella that we just mentioned. And, then I found this statement by him from April of 2014: “Within minutes I was in a state of an ecstatic perception, caught into a prophetic elevation, and during this moment I caught a glimpse of a variety of religious garments and oil being poured on them. Then I saw Pope Francis, a massive spiritual renewal, and a shaking in heaven and on earth.” (http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word_pf.html?ID=13348) (Well, we can say beyond the shadow of a doubt that anyone connecting Pope Francis to a massive spiritual renewal, with the suggestion that this is from God, is someone described in 2 Cor. 11:13 as a deceitful worker).
Now, I want to share about a video Anita Fuentes posted on youtube on Feb. 21. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANFV3JdLvAs) She is sharing what three others have prophesied concerning the death of Billy Graham.
The first one is TD Hale (pastor of a church in Ohio) who said this in Dec. of 2015 – “Look to when I take my servant, Billy Graham, home. When I do, it shall be a prophetic sign that the age of grace will end soon after. Wake up and be ready for my appearing in this midnight hour, O backslidden church. I am coming for my bride who has made herself ready. Repent and prepare to meet thy God. For to be left behind to endure the wrath upon the wicked of the earth who have hardened their hearts against me. O Earth, Earth, hear ye the Word of the Lord.” And, the second one was given in Dec. of 2011 by Maurice Sklar who is a Messianic Jew: “I am taking Billy Graham home to heaven soon. When you see this know that my time of grace for the Gentile nations is coming to a close. Prepare your hearts; the Lord is at the door to appear for His bride.” (Now, it’s interesting to note these are the only two prophecies I came across which essentially predict the rapture will occur soon after Billy Graham’s death. All the others predict a great awakening as does the third one on this video).
This was given in 2012 by Mark Chironna on a TBN program and many of the listeners have probably heard about this. He stated: “We are going into perhaps the most significant day in church history…There is a company of people that has been hidden in God for a season. They’re coming out of hiding and they’re going to stand in the courts of Pharoah. Like Moses did, and Elijah did, they’re going to challenge demonic spirits. They’re going to challenge the powers of Egypt. The earth is going to see a 21st century manifestation of the demonstration of the Holy Spirit…”There was more, but as soon as he finished Benny Hinn said, “The sign will be Billy Graham’s death. You are talking about a people in hiding, just like Elijah was in hiding, but when he came out he challenged the prophets of Baal. And, the Lord said to me back in 1989 when Oral Roberts and Billy Graham go home, it will be the key. It will be sign of the beginning of the greatest revival. Oral is home and Billy is about to go home, and when he does, I’m telling you the whole church, get ready.” (Well, just to note, as sister Tammy mentioned in the last discussion, Benny Hinn is a false prophet and here are just two examples. He prophesied that Fidel Castro would die in the mid-90’s and he died in 2016. He also prophesied that the homosexual community would be destroyed by God in the mid-90’s, but it is sadly thriving today).
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMIl_81kNyk)
Next, I want to mention a message (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LiCTA0Vbx4&feature=youtu.be&t=1h13m37s) given by a man named Jason Hooper. He pastors a church called King’s Way in Irondale, AL. Here is some of what he said: “I thank You, Lord, that the next Billy Graham could be right here in this room.” And, then, a bit later in the message he was speaking about Oral Roberts and said, “Oral really spoke of faith in healing and Billy, of course, spoke of evangelism. So there’s actually a merging of the mantles that is available to this generation that I believe is going to release the greatest demonstration of faith, healing and evangelism this world has ever known.”
(Well, since Kenneth Copeland, Kim Clement, Benny Hinn, Jason Hooper and others have all mentioned Oral Roberts, I want to give some information about him). He proclaimed the Word of Faith doctrine associated with the prosperity gospel. He had a luxurious lifestyle, wore expensive suits and shoes, rings with diamonds and solid gold bracelets. He flew in his private plane which cost $2 million. He taught that God wants all believers to be rich, healthy and happy. He declared that those who gave to God, and especially to his ministry, would get a financial reward from God. He supported the Toronto Blessing and the "bartender of the Holy Spirit” Rodney Howard Brown. Oral Roberts claimed in 1977 that he had received a vision from God telling him to build the “City of Faith Medical Center.” He claimed that he saw a 900 foot high Jesus, who said that the “City of Faith” center would succeed. So, four years later, in 1981, he opened the center. Then, in 1983, he said that Jesus Christ appeared to him in person (not a vision) and told him to find a cure for cancer. In 1986 Oral Roberts said God had told him, "I want you to use the ORU medical school for my medical presence on earth." And, that he had to collect $8 million for the institute or otherwise God would take him home. In January Oral made the call to the faithful and he said that by April 1 he had received $9,100,000. However, in 1989 City of Faith closed due to bankruptcy. (http://www.rejoicenow.nl/page/oral-roberts-heresy-exposed) (Based on these facts concerning Oral Roberts I cannot believe anyone prophesying a move of God with any connection to this man is truly hearing from God. You know, it just breaks my heart to know people put their faith and trust in men who are just swindlers. And, how odd that as we already mentioned, Billy Graham would say of Oral Roberts that he “was a man of God, and a great friend in ministry.” You know, it seems like no matter what some of these preachers do or say there are other preachers who will support and promote them!).
And, one more example in this section is by Bonnie Jones, who is Bob Jones’ widow. She posted the following on her website: “Today all heaven rejoiced as Billy Graham went home to glory. It was a moment he long awaited to be with his first love Jesus, and to be reunited with his loving wife Ruth. Although I was taken back I remembered the prophecy Bob Jones had regarding Billy Graham. As far back as I can remember Bob would pray for God to extend years to Billy Graham’s life. Bob said, “The body of Christ in not yet ready. When Billy Graham goes home it will release the next great wave. A wave of power evangelism like the world has never seen and it will bring in the greatest harvest of souls.” (http://didyoulearntolove.org/2018/02/21/bob-jones-prophecy-regarding-billy-graham/) (Well, here is a little bit of information about Bob Jones for those who haven’t heard of him. He was part of the Kansas City prophets back in the 1980’s. Others in the group were: Paul Cain, John Paul Jackson, David Parker, Jim Goll, Francis Frangipane and Mike Bickle. Nearly every one of these men was separately or collectively involved in the “Latter Rain” false revivals that have taken place. Several of them are now part of the NAR mainly organized by Peter Wagner who has since passed on.
Bob Jones’ spiritual experiences are extraordinary to say the least. They consist of “Voices,” “angels,” and continual “translations to heaven” which give him new revelations that are not only contrary to Scripture but are easily categorized as of the New Age variety of spirituality. Many of the prophetic/charismatic types, such as Todd Bentley, consider Jones a senior prophet and mentor). (http://letusreason.org/Latrain52.htm)
Well, that is all I have for this time, sister Tammy, and I just want to say thank you for all the information you shared. We just pray people will not be deceived by all those who would lift up Billy Graham and by those who are prophesying these great revivals. We must remain vigilant, be found in God’s Word, and focused on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.
The following are the notes to the discussion found at this link (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/363023287530719/?id=100014819433180) for anyone who would like to study the subject more in depth.
(Before we present the information we have I want to address the issue that many would say it is unkind to say anything negative when someone dies. Many feel it is disrespectful to the family members. Well, I will say we mean no disrespect to anyone, but the truth needs to be told. When a preacher dies, especially someone as famous as Billy Graham, those unfamiliar with his teachings may conduct searches on the internet concerning the person. In this case many young people may be unfamiliar with Billy Graham because most of his huge crusades were held before they were even born. There is much talk of his “mantle” being passed down, as we will discuss later, so many will want to know what this means. So, it is not unkind, but rather speaking the truth in love to present the information we have gathered).
We are going to begin with sister Tammy discussing some examples of his ecumenism:
Here we can see some of Billy Graham’s ecumenical leanings and there are many more in the other discussion that we did on Billy Graham. (https://www.facebook.com/tammy.cheetham.77/videos/257249564774759/). I want to share these few points here to show how these twist and distort the true message of salvation.
1) Billy Graham’s efforts towards ecumenism began early in his crusades. In fact, as early as his third major crusade. In 1950 a man named Willis Haymaker joined the team and the following was part of his duties: “He would also call on the local Catholic bishop and other clerics to acquaint them with crusade plans, and invite them to the meetings. They would usually appoint a priest to attend and report back. This was years before Vatican II’s openness to protestants but we were concerned to let the Catholic bishop see that my goal was not to get people to leave their churches, rather I wanted them to commit their lives to Christ.” P. 162 of his autobiography, “Just As I Am”.
2) This is the link to show Billy Graham’s ecumenical bent concerning Mormonism - https://www.deseretnews.com/article/900012071/when-billy-graham-acknowledged-glenn-beck-as-a-mormon-and-christian.html
3) In 1952 the Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph reported Graham’s own words: "Many of the people who reach a decision for Christ at our meetings have joined the Catholic Church and we have received commendations from Catholic publications for the revived interest in their Church following our campaigns. This happened both in Boston and Washington. After all, one of our prime purposes is to help the churches in a community. If after we move on, the local churches do not feel the efforts of these meetings in increased membership and attendance, then our crusade would have to be considered a failure." (http://jimdukeperspective.com/story-behind-billy-graham/)
4) At that time [March 1950], Protestantism in New England was weak, due in part to theological differences within some denominations, the influence of Unitarian ideas in other denominations, and the strength of the Roman Catholic Church. In spite of all that, a number of Roman Catholic priests and Unitarian clergy, together with some of their parishioners, came to the meetings along with those from Evangelical churches. With my limited Evangelical background, this was a further expansion of my own ecumenical outlook. I now began to make friends among people from many different backgrounds and to develop a spiritual love for their clergy (Graham, Just As I Am, p. 167).
5) I lost a very dear friend (Jesuit Fulton Sheen), and since that time, the whole relationship between me and my work, and the Roman Catholic Church has changed. They open their arms to welcome us and we have the support of the Catholic Church almost everywhere we go. And I think that we must come to the place where we keep our eyes on Jesus Christ, not on what denomination or what church or what group we belong to. [Interview with Robert Schuller, June 8, 1997]
Thank you for those excellent examples, sister Tammy.
And, just to explain a bit concerning Fulton Sheen: he was an American bishop (later archbishop) of the Catholic Church known for his preaching and especially his work on television and radio. Sheen was a faithful son of Rome. In his book ‘Treasure in Clay,’ Sheen said that one of his spiritual secrets was to offer Mass every Saturday "in honor of the Blessed Mother to solicit her protection of my priesthood."
In his 1997 autobiography, Graham described his first meeting with Sheen, though he doesn’t give the exact date. He says he was traveling on a train from Washington to New York and was just drifting off to sleep when Sheen knocked on the sleeping compartment and asked to "come in for a chat and a prayer" (Graham, Just As I Am, p. 692). Graham says: "We talked about our ministries and our common commitment to evangelism, and I told him how grateful I was for his ministry and his focus on Christ… We talked further and we prayed; and by the time he left, I felt as if I had known him all my life." (https://www.wayoflife.org/database/grahamcompromise.html)
In the next section of this discussion I wanted to mention some statements made by Catholics about Billy Graham either before or after his passing. I will not comment on most of these because they absolutely speak for themselves and demonstrate Billy Graham’s ecumenism beyond a shadow of a doubt.
In an article at cruxnow.com, a Catholic website, we read: “Graham welcomed representatives of other denominations, including Catholics, to attend his crusades. In many places local Catholic authorities welcomed him and formed pastoral follow-up programs to welcome lapsed Catholics who were prompted by the preacher to return to the church. Additionally, the article states, “In 1964, Cardinal Richard J. Cushing of Boston said that no Catholic who heard Graham preach “can do anything but become a better Catholic.” (https://cruxnow.com/obituary/2018/02/21/rev-graham-dies-world-famous-evangelist-admired-americans/)
Here is an excerpt from a letter written in 1965 by Father Cuthbert E. Allen who was Executive Vice-President of Catholic Belmont Abbey College at the time. He stated: “Billy Graham gave an inspiring and a theologically sound address that may have been given by Bishop Fulton J. Sheen or any other Catholic preacher. I have followed Billy Graham's career and I must emphasize that he has been more Catholic than otherwise, and I say this not in a partisan manner but as a matter of fact.” (http://seawaves.us/na/web4/smoke.html#Chapter_Eight)
James Martin, an American Jesuit priest, a writer, and editor-at-large of the Jesuit magazine America tweeted: “RIP #BillyGraham, a towering figure in American history, who would no doubt prefer to be remembered for what he truly was: a good Christian."Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York, said Graham epitomized “what’s best in American Christianity.” Dolan, who attended Graham’s funeral, said Graham continued America’s historical tradition of “spiritual renewal and social service.” “He’s particularly refreshing today when religion is often abused and perverted for the cause of hatred and violence. He would always use it as an occasion of harmony, amity and respect.” (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/03/02/what-to-expect-from-famed-evangelist-billy-grahams-funeral/?utm_term=.045579c8201b)
And, just to note concerning the funeral: the guest list included a who’s who of those popular in white evangelicalism, including entertainers Kathie Lee Gifford and Steven Curtis Chapman; pastors Rick Warren and Joel Osteen; popular speakers Ravi Zacharias and Beth Moore; and political figures Ben Carson and Sarah Palin. Additionally, more than 100 international delegates representing Russian Orthodox, Greek Orthodox, Catholic and evangelical traditions also attended. (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/03/02/what-to-expect-from-famed-evangelist-billy-grahams-funeral/?utm_term=.045579c8201b)
(And, there are many more examples I could give in this section, but I am just going to give one more. It is lengthy, but I think it highlights many of the points we and others have tried, and continue to try and make, concerning warning about Billy Graham and his ministry).
The following statements are from an article entitled, “The Rev. Billy Graham, friend to Catholics,” written by Father Jerome Vereb: “In my former role as an official of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity, I had the opportunity to get to know the late Dr. Billy Graham, particularly on the occasion of his first meeting with Pope John Paul II.
Three concerns united them (Pope John Paul II and Billy Graham):
1. The need to bring comfort to persecuted Christians, whether they were in communist nations or under some other totalitarian regime. They discussed that many times.
2. Providing ways for clergy around the world to be sufficiently familiar with the Scriptures to teach them properly to others.
3. Making time in their demanding schedules for meditation, so they could come into the presence of Jesus. They discussed different forms of prayer. Each had overwhelming demands of travel and preaching, and they each knew that they had to know Jesus before they could share Jesus. I remember them saying that to each other.
Whenever (Graham) prepared crusades in various international cities, he introduced himself to the local diocesan bishop and invited Catholics to participate in leadership and preparation for the event. When Catholics came forward in response to his call to give their lives to Jesus, the Graham organization arranged for follow-up by a Catholic parish.
He also put his organizational experience at the service of the Catholic Church. I know of his involvement in the support of papal events around the world.
It is not surprising that among his closest friends from the Catholic world was Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen. As each of them engaged in evangelization from a different stream of Christianity, they shared an underlying spirituality of humility and meekness that supports the cause of Christian unity.
When Billy Graham died Feb. 21, he left a list of people whom he wanted to have invited to his funeral. Among them were many priests and bishops from the United States, including the papal nuncio, Archbishop Christophe Pierre and Cardinal Timothy Dolan. He regarded them not just as ecumenical partners in a diplomatic sense, but as his co-laborers in the vineyard of the Lord.”(http://www.pittsburghcatholic.org/columns/the-rev-billy-graham-friend-to-catholics-46842136?profile=1020)
(And, as I said, these examples all just speak for themselves. I realize throughout the discussion we may repeat points such as Graham sending many people at his crusades to Catholic parishes, but these are all from different sources so there is no denying this fact.
Next, sister Tammy will speak about some of the accolades and awards Billy Graham received and what God’s Word has to say about friendship with the world. Then, she will speak about two articles concerning Rick Warren and his association with Billy Graham).
Many people have been deceived into believing that Billy Graham is one of the greatest preachers of all time. There are many sources, however, that say contrary to this, they show Billy Graham as an apostate working with other religious systems including that of Catholicism.
Since 1959, The Franciscan International Award has honored men, women and organizations who symbolize the spirit and the apostolic zeal of St. Francis of Assisi. Previous recipients of the award include: Dr. Billy Graham for True Ecumenism (1972).
History of the Franciscan International Award/past recipients -Each year the Order of Friars Minor Conventual presents an award to an individual or to an organization which is committed to serving the Ideals of Christ, especially as they were proclaimed by St. Francis of Assisi. This Franciscan International Award is presented yearly by the Conventual Franciscans on behalf of Franciscan Retreats and Spirituality Center, Prior Lake, Minnesota.
The Franciscan Order was founded in 1209 as an Order within the Roman Catholic Church by St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis had many devoted friends and benefactors among the inhabitants of his native Italy. Many of these were especially honored by being awarded honorary membership with the Franciscan Order. So, from the very beginning of the Order, individuals who served others in an outstanding way were given a "Franciscan Award" for their acts of charity. That custom endures to the present day and was the basis for reestablishing the Franciscan International Award In 1959.
Billy Graham Made Gallup's 'Most Admired' List for a Record 61st Time. Gallup annually lists after asking more than 1,000 Americans which man and woman in the world they admired most. The poll has two criteria: the man or woman must be living, and the open-ended question is asked with no prompting, meaning those whose names are in the headlines are likely choices. (http://www.breakingchristiannews.com/articles/display_art.html?ID=23273)
He and his wife, Ruth, also received a Congressional Gold Medal on May 2nd, 1996. He was humble, but he still went and received it. "A Congressional Gold Medal is an award bestowed by the United States Congress; the Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom are the highest civilian awards in the United States." (Wikipedia) –
Graham received the Hollywood Star in 1989– he said he hopes that years from now, "somebody will come and say, 'Who was Billy Graham, what did he stand for?' Perhaps a child will ask his parents or grandparents, and they will tell him that {Billy Graham} was not a celebrity, not a star, but a simple preacher of the gospel and that they might explain the gospel to him and that many might find Christ in that." (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Graham#Awards_and_honors)
Friendship with the world makes one an enemy of God, also the Bible says, "Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets." - Luke 6:26. Now am not saying that overseers according to the truth are not to live a respectful life toward outsiders, 1 Tim. 3:7 “Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” The way one conducts their faith and walk with God does need to be lived in the faith so that even though you are not loved by the majority of the world, that they can see no blame etc. for the testimony of Jesus, but to be admired by a world that hate God and are enemies really shows the compromise with the faith. God told sinners to repent and believe that Jesus is the Only way of salvation, when this truth is heard it is an offence to the world that is unbelieving, it is offensive because it crucifies them, tells them that their morals cannot save them and their good works, but that Jesus alone can and does forgive. It tells people that the pope holds no power of salvation and that he has a false gospel leading many astray. The truth will expose the error. These we can clearly see that Billy Graham did not do. He told people that Catholicism was ok to remain in and that these had the same Jesus!
I just want to say that anyone really giving the true Gospel of Jesus Christ will not be admired by the world. I am not saying that a true man or woman of God should not desire to be living respectfully in this sin sick world. A true man or women of God will not be loved by the world if they are preaching the true Gospel as it is an offence to the broad path to destruction which many are on, sad to say.
Rick warren – role model – article - http://time.com/5169730/billy-graham-rick-warren/
I recently read an article concerning the death of Billy Graham that was titled 'Billy Was My Hero.' Pastor Rick Warren Remembers His Mentor Billy Graham.
This article is enough to make straight hair curl! So many things wrong with this and anyone who understands the problem with Rick Warren and his PEACE plan, well, then they would see how much is wrong with endorsing people like Billy Graham as though he is a great evangelist!
This is just a part from the article and says - Once Warren flew to Graham’s home in North Carolina after Graham asked him for an update on his PEACE Plan, a global initiative for churches to change things like poverty and disease in their local communities. “He said, ‘Rick this is the greatest vision I’ve ever heard, I just wish I was around long enough to see it happen’,” Warren remembers. “I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who received that kind of encouragement.”
There are many problems with the PEACE plan of Rick Warren and I will list a few here from an article exposing this just so this can further reiterate these issues and encourage you to study what the enemy is using to deceived people into the acceptance of a false peace and one world religion.
Protege of Peter Drucker, to create consumer-driven mega-church model
Cited as the father of the Emergent Church Movement.
A strong advocate of contemplative prayer, and encourages pastors to use Centering and Breath Prayers.
Signed on to “A Common Word Between Us” that seeks common ground between Muslims and Christians.
Gave the invocation at the presidential inauguration in January 2009, praying to Isa of the Qur’an along with Jesus.
New Age proponent Leonard Sweet, who calls himself an emergent church leader, trained many of Warren’s church leaders and pastors at the 2008 Saddleback Small Groups Conference.
Uses The Message paraphrase of the Bible for much of his writings.
Promoted on the “speakers corner” of the Islamic Society of North America, an arm of the Muslim Brotherhood and a financier of the Hamas terror organization.
Supports the work of Tony Blair and his global spiritualization movement.
Supports the “Catholics Come Home” campaign.
In spite of photo evidence, denied his involvement in King’s Way, a bridge-building movement with Muslims at Saddleback.
Creator of the controversial P.E.A.C.E. Plan
As part of the P.E.A.C.E. plan, his top missions pastor was photographed teaching that Muslims don’t have to convert to Christianity to be saved.
Created the The Daniel Plan: God’s Prescription for Your Health to get the folks at Saddleback Church healthy. To create his alleged biblical plan, he elicited the aid of unbelievers — Dr. Mehmet Oz., a Sufi Muslim, Dr. Mark Hyman, a secular Jew and New Ager, and Dr. Daniel Amen, a professing Christian who dabbles in Eastern mysticism.
Promoter of the problematic The Bible, Son of God and A.D. miniseries, and packaged church sermons and video Bible studies.
Gathered with the Pope at the Vatican, along with Russell Moore, Muslims and Mormons to promote unity around family issues.
Another article I have read recently stating the problems again with this affiliation and deception especially as much truth is mentioned within this article but yet again we must be careful to examine the doctrine and fruit of all these ministers claiming to be for the Lord. Rick Warren Says Billy Graham Inspired Him to Witness to LGBT, Muslims, Atheists Despite Criticism but then goes on further in the article to say this "In the 1950 and '60s, Billy insisted that all his crusades be integrated. In some southern cities in America, the Graham crusades were the first public events to be racially integrated. But Billy also insisted that his crusades be religiously integrated," Warren said.
"He put Catholics and Protestants, Calvinists and Charismatics, Fundamentalist and Evangelicals, Liberals and Conservatives, all on the platform together. He was criticized for it, but he knew that God blesses unity and harmony."
Thank you so much for all that excellent information, sister Tammy.
(Next, I want to spend some time mentioning those in the “evangelical world” who commented on Billy Graham’s passing. I will read their statements and give a short summarization of their false teachings and associations.
But, first, I want to say that I recently read the following statement by someone who has done a tremendous amount of research on Billy Graham and I believe this to be true: “He largely invented “ecumenical evangelism,” which has done so much to build the apostate “one world church.” And, the listeners who know anything about the people I will mention will recognize they are helping build the apostate “one world church” also.
Unless otherwise noted, the following quotes in this section are all from one of the two following articles): (https://www.yahoo.com/news/christians-wrestle-billy-graham-apos-225220778.html) ; (http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/03/02/billy-graham-remembered-as-faithful-most-important-evangelist-by-religious-leaders.html)
TD Jakes tweeted: “Today, we lost a General in the Kingdom of God! You have earned your rest, sir. Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Well, TD Jakes is a WOF/prosperity preacher who denies the Trinity. He has appeared on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday and he spoke at the prayer service along with Catholic priests, imams, and rabbis on July 8, 2016 after several Dallas Police officers were shot). (http://www.supersoul.tv/supersoul-sunday/bishop-t-d-jakes-how-to-use-your-time-effectively-and-purposefully) (https://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-dallas-morning-news/20160709/281569470057770)
Joyce Meyer tweeted: “While it was sad to hear the news of Billy Graham passing, I am rejoicing that he is now home in heaven. Billy was a great man of God who made a tremendous impact all over the globe. His love for people and integrity had a great impact on my life and so many others!” (Well, Joyce Meyer teaches classic Word of Faith false doctrine which includes such error as: Jesus went to hell to pay for our sins; Christians are little gods, and Jesus was the first born again man. She also teaches that Christians can speak things into existence). (http://longfortruth.blogspot.ca/2014/07/6-reasons-you-should-stop-listening-to.html?m=1)(https://isnotsatire.wordpress.com/2018/02/19/you-can-call-things-into-existence-like-god-does-says-joyce-meyer/)
And, then we have Beth Moore who said: “There simply will never be another Billy Graham. What a gift of God to this world.” (Problems with Beth Moore include her recognition of the Catholic church as part of the body of Christ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6y7zvj0LzI); she has a weekly program on TBN (http://www.bethmoore.org/TV?emid=weeklyupdate-video1-BethMooreTV-20151230); and, she teaches a combination of Word of Faith and self-help philosophy). (http://www.4discernment.com/woman-2-woman.html)
Russell Moore, president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, part of the Southern Baptist Convention, said it’s almost “impossible” to count the number of people he knows who have become Christians through Graham’s work. In an interview with Fox News, Moore praised the authenticity of Graham, saying he was someone who was the same in both his public and private life. In addition, Moore sent out a tweet that stated: “Billy Graham was, in my view, the most important evangelist since the Apostle Paul.” (Well, Russell Moore is quite ecumenical himself having attended a conference on marriage and the family at the Vatican in November 2014, along with Rick Warren). (http://religionnews.com/2014/11/03/vatican-to-host-religious-leaders-tackle-marriage-family-issues/) (And, then, he stated this to a gathering of Evangelical leaders during the “Evangelicals for Life” event held in January of 2016. “Our absence is a shame (speaking about March for Life events). We don’t need any less ‘Ave Maria,’ but we need some more ‘Amazing Grace’ in the mix as well”). (https://juicyecumenism.com/2016/01/13/35331/).
Greg Laurie: "I don’t think anyone will ever take Billy’s place. But we can all, in our own way, follow his example and proclaim the same Gospel as he did." (Well, here is an example to show that Billy Graham was confused about the true gospel. In 1967 he received an honorary degree from Catholic Belmont Abbey College, located about miles 15 from Charlotte, NC, and which I mentioned earlier in the discussion. At the ceremony Graham stated the following: “Finally, the way of salvation has not changed. I know how the ending of the book will be. THE GOSPEL THAT BUILT THIS SCHOOL AND THE GOSPEL THAT BRINGS ME HERE TONIGHT IS STILL THE WAY TO SALVATION” (“Belmont Abbey Confers Honorary Degree,” Paul Smith, Gazette staff reporter, The Gastonia Gazette, Gastonia, North Carolina, Nov. 22, 1967). (But, as we have stated repeatedly in these discussions, the Catholic gospel is one based on their sacramental system; one that denies the sufficiency of Christ’s death on the cross. It is another gospel).
And, apparently Laurie believes in following Graham’s footsteps concerning his own crusades. For one example, in 2003 Laurie held a crusade in Newcastle, Australia. It was reported on Australian TV that they had ‘every form of Christian church--whether it’s Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Assemblies of God, Seventh Day Adventist--they’re all united in this event.’ (http://www.practicalbible.com/top-stories/greg-lauries-abominable-ecumenical-follow-up) Additionally, when Laurie met Graham in 1995, he said, “I felt like he was the closest person I’d ever met to Jesus Christ.” (https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2018/02/billy-graham-death/553850/) (Well, that obviously is a completely inappropriate statement).
James Dobson, founder of ‘Focus on the Family’ in 1977, which he led until 2003, said, “It’s not often that you can say someone truly changed the world, but when it comes to Billy, he changed the face of eternity as well. Through his crusades, he helped turn many millions of hearts to Christ.” (Now, I find this to be quite odd because we have no way of knowing how many people, any time the gospel is presented, truly repent and are born again. James Dobson doesn’t know these millions of people and has no way of knowing if they truly know the Lord and are living for Him. This is all besides the issue of the decision cards of many thousands being sent to Catholic parishes and/or Jewish synagogues, which is the same as saying we’re giving you over to be led down the broad road to hell. Additionally, we can see by Dobson’s statement, after the death of John Paul II, that he is quite ecumenical himself: "Today's passing of Pope John Paul II is an immeasurable loss – not only to our friends of the Roman Catholic faith, but to the entire world. We found common cause with him and with the 'culture of life' he espoused so eloquently; the legacy he left us is to be cherished. While we grieve the profound loss of this remarkable man, we celebrate his life, his ministry and his undeniable impact on the world.”
(https://web.archive.org/web/20170317071704/http://www.charitywire.com/charity63/05922.html) (Well, these statements lifting up any man, much less a pope, just make us ill and I hope the listeners feel the same way).
Paula White, a spiritual adviser to President Trump and a WOF/prosperity preacher, said, “This man truly lived out Christ-likeness,” adding that when she met with Graham it was like she was having a conversation with Jesus himself. “His words were powerful and profound, but it was the presence of God in his life.” (Well, first of all, we don’t say having a conversation with a mere man is like having a conversation with Jesus. That’s ridiculous). And, Paula White has been a counselor and friend to Pres. Trump for more than 16 years. She had this to say about him: “Our president 100 percent is a Christian who understands receiving faith by the grace of the Lord, Jesus.” (Well, so, I have no confidence in her discernment. As we have stated in other discussions we don’t know what is in Trump’s heart, but we see absolutely no fruit which would make us believe he is born again. We are not declaring his eternal destination, but we pray he would truly repent). (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2017/09/09/trump-pastor-paula-white-the-president-100-percent-is-a-christian-a-person-of-repentance/?utm_term=.37e1443468b3)
Samuel Rodriguez, the president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, praised Graham as the “quintessential unifier,” pointing, in particular, to the integration of his crusades at a time when segregation was prevalent. His sermons about reaching the world with the gospel inspired Rodriguez to do the same. “No Christian leader in modern history brought more unity to the Christian body than Billy Graham,” he said. (Well, more like false unity to the false Christian body. And, Samuel Rodriguez knows all about false unity seeing as he spoke at the Together 2016 event held in July 2016 at the National Mall in Washington, DC, which was a completely ecumenical undertaking). (http://herescope.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/resetting-reformation.html)
Jentezen Franklin stated: “Upon hearing him preach for the first time one could immediately realize how dearly this man loved Jesus and wanted others to experience that same love – it overflowed from the very depths of his heart. His passion and commitment to sharing the love of Jesus all around the world was instrumental in my own life, inspiring me as I began my ministry.” (Well, Jentezen Franklin is a WOF preacher who focuses on fasting; he believes angels become unemployed when we fail to pray (http://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/526028.Jentezen_Franklin) ; but most concerning is a clip I shared on Facebook not too long ago in which he states, “Let’s come together, we need each other, the Baptist, the Methodist, the Catholic, anybody preaching Jesus, preaching His grace, His blood, the death, the burial, the resurrection, is my brother, is my sister, and I’m not gonna fight you. We don’t have to agree on everything. Let’s see each other through the mercy, through the blood, that’s what America needs, that’s what the world needs.” (Wow. Doesn’t this sound like something Billy Graham could have said?)
Joel Osteen tweeted the following: “Billy Graham has always been and will always be a hero in our home. Next to my own father, Reverend Graham was the most humble and gracious man I ever knew. I am honored to call him a friend and a mentor. Victoria and I will miss him dearly.” (So, Rick Warren and Joel Osteen consider Billy Graham to be their mentor? My, oh, my).
Now, there were obviously several people who spoke at the funeral and we don’t have time to mention all those, but I did want to mention the remarks made by Billy Graham’s daughter, Anne Graham Lotz. Here is part of her eulogy: “When he died, that was something very strategic from heaven’s point of view…I know that before the foundations of the world were laid, Feb. 21, 2018 was the date that God chose to take my father home. Why?” She went on to explain that Jewish liturgy has February 21 as the day the portion of the Torah dealing with the law of Moses is read. Then she said, “Moses was the great liberator. He brought millions of people out of bondage, slavery, got them to the edge of the promised land, and God took him to heaven…My father was also a great liberator. He brought millions of people out of bondage to sin, and gets us to the edge of heaven, the edge of the promised land, and God has called him home.”
(http://www.wbtv.com/clip/14168816/video-anne-graham-lotz-speaks-at-her-fathers-funeral) (Well, I find it quite odd that she would reference Jewish liturgy because as you have stated before on these discussions, sister Tammy, Judaism is a wicked religion based on what they believe about Jesus. That he’s in hell and so forth. And, then, yet another person who assumes the numbers of people saved when we really have no idea. But, to say her father “brought millions of people out of bondage to sin” himself ascribes abilities to him no mortal man possesses. Rather shocking, actually).
Now, I want to read part of a post on Frances Swaggart’s Facebook page from 2-21-18: “My family and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Reverend Billy Graham. As my husband said on his program this morning, “He was, no doubt, one of the great assets to this nation and to the world for that matter.” (You know, it is just beyond me how a ministry known for warning about false teachers, false movements such as New Age, false religions such as Jehovah’s Witness and Mormonism, could be so in the dark about Billy Graham’s ecumenism and universalism. His beliefs and practices are so well documented in videos and books such as Dr. Cathy Burns’ book, “Billy Graham and His Friends.” No one has any excuse to be misinformed on this matter except that many are burying their heads in the sand).
(Now, for the last person in this section of the discussion, I want to mention some statements made by Kenneth Copeland. These statements will segue nicely into the next section concerning prophecies about revivals and mantles).
So, in the afternoon of Feb. 21 Kenneth Copeland stated, “Most people don’t know of the very close relationship between Billy Graham and Oral Roberts because in those days (1967) it seemed as those the doctrine was so far apart…I want to pray today the prayer and to pick up the prayer that Billy Graham prayed.” He said, “I’ve been praying that we might have a spiritual awakening. I think that becomes possible only as individuals surrender their lives afresh and anew to Christ.” Kenneth Copeland prayed a prayer in agreement with Billy Graham’s statement. Then, he went on to say, “If you’ve never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, this is the moment to do it. Don’t wait another moment. For you see here’s the thing you need to realize; Jesus did all the hard part. He went through that horrible, horrible unthinkable, unbelievable amount of suffering, not only in His physical body, but He stepped out of that body into the jaws of hell, and He suffered the penalty there.” He said a few more things and, then finished up with this: “Thank God for this man's life. Thank God for what He opened the door for Jesus to personally do in this nation." (https://www.facebook.com/CopelandNetwork/videos/1806072066110857/) (And, I am sure most of the listeners already know Kenneth Copeland is a WOF teacher who falsely teaches that Jesus suffered in hell, but we want to highlight the fact that it isn’t a coincidence that all the people we have mentioned who have various false teachings and associations all have lifted up Billy Graham. And, then, he thanks God for what He opened the door for Jesus to personally do in this nation? Well, I would remind the listener of the statement we shared earlier that “Billy Graham largely invented “ecumenical evangelism,” which has done so much to build the apostate “one world church.” These types of statements show us, definitively, that those following WOF are bringing another Jesus. Additionally, I wanted to mention concerning the relationship between Billy Graham and Oral Roberts that Billy Graham gave the dedication address for Oral Roberts University in 1967). (https://www.oru.edu/billygraham/) (And, then, when Oral Roberts died in 2009, Billy Graham stated, “Oral Roberts was a man of God, and a great friend in ministry. I loved him as a brother. We had many quiet conversations over the years”). (https://billygraham.org/story/billy-graham-franklin-graham-react-to-passing-of-oral-roberts/)
(I know I spent a good bit of time on this section about false teachers praising Billy Graham and some may wonder why, but I think it is important to show the state of the modern church. True believers would correctly designate it as lukewarm, at the very minimum, and the fault lies mainly at the feet of these false shepherds).
But, before moving on I want to read Ezekiel 22:25-27:“There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof. Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.”
Now, I want to begin on the section concerning false prophecies about revival and mantles.
The first example is from a Sid Roth program (https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=53&v=Bkv0hWqavk0) in which he reads a vision about Billy Graham a woman named Kathie Walters had a couple of years ago: “The next thing I saw was Billy Graham entering into what looked like a huge heavenly stadium where there were thousands and thousands of people. As he entered I heard cheering and cheering. It was louder than any packed stadium I’ve ever heard. They were waiting. And, they were all the thousands who had been saved during Billy Graham’s ministry.” (And, yet again, we have someone assuming numbers of people saved under a person’s ministry when we really have no idea. Also, this focus on man where she supposedly sees a huge heavenly stadium full of people waiting to thank a person. I am just shaking my head. You know, the Bible does speak of believers receiving crowns, and in Rev. 4:10-11 we see that the 24 elders laid their crowns at Jesus’ feet, and we imagine that all the saints will do so as well. But, you know, in the presence of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, any good deeds, any acts of service, any work for the Lord we have performed will just pale in comparison to Him and what He has done.
And, then more red flags because at her website she says the miraculous power of God, the Angels, and heavenly visitations are supposed to be a normal part of our lives). (https://kathiewaltersministry.com/) Additionally, I read an article on Elijah’s List she wrote a few days after Pres. Trump’s inauguration. She said the night before the ceremony she had been lifted up in the spirit and she saw the angel Gabriel and thousands of other angels at the inauguration. Some were mingling with the crowd and some were standing shoulder to shoulder on a glass wall she saw surrounding the whole area. Then she said that the ones on the wall were shorter, had dark hair and looked Italian to her, but that she hadn’t figured out yet why God sent Italian angels to Washington DC. (http://elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=17403) (Now, my intention is never to be unkind when we discuss people and their statements, but sometimes we just have to say what on earth?!)
Later, in the video Sid Roth says, “Many prophets have had words that when Billy Graham is promoted to heaven the mantle on him will fall on many people throughout the world and I believe it’s going to take you beyond what he did.” (We have heard many in the NAR speak of mantles so let’s discuss this topic for a minute. The main place the Bible mentions mantles concerns Elijah and Elisha in 1 Kings 19. Many of these prophetic types mainly focus on the Old Testament, and we are not saying we should ignore the OT, but we are in the New Covenant and we need to examine the New Testament concerning God’s instructions for this dispensation. Not everything described in the Bible is a directive for, or applies, to us. For example, Deut. 22:11 says, “Thou shalt not wear a garment of divers sorts, as of woollen and linen together.” We don’t have to concern ourselves with that instruction today. But, rather than receiving mantles, which are not mentioned in the NT, we read of gifts given to believers in chapters such as Romans 12 and 1 Cor. 12. These gifts are to be used for spreading the gospel and for serving others, for example. We are told not to neglect our gifts and to stir ourselves up in our gifts).
Another example concerns Chuck Pierce, CheAhn, Dutch Sheets and others who are gathering in Phoenix, AZ, for the Passover Glory Festival from March 29th to April 1st. Those organizing this event promoted it in an Elijah List article, stating the following: “Billy Graham recently passed away and it has been prophesied that once he does his mantle for mass harvest would be released to many. It was also prophesied that once both Oral Roberts and Billy Graham died a new awakening would hit America. Well we are now in that time frame! All the signs are pointing to an Awakening. The question is, are you positioned and ready? Ready or not it’s about to hit like a wave across this great nation.” (But, as one of our dear sisters commented when I posted about this event on Facebook a few days ago, she doesn’t want this mantle! And, we agree wholeheartedly!)
Moving along, Lou Engle wrote on the day of Graham’s death, “It is my conviction that his passing is the signpost of a new day of evangelism and stadium Christianity breaking forth in America again.” For several years the Lord has been alerting us that Billy Graham’s death would mark an important shift in the earth. (http://www.thecall.com/article/briefing-021-billy-grahams-mantle) (I am sure most of the listeners would remember that Lou Engle kissed the feet of the Catholic leader, Matteo Calisi, at the Azusa 2016 gathering which was held at the Los Angeles coliseum).
(https://amredeemed.com/signs-of-the-end/lou-engle-of-the-call-prostrates-himself-kisses-foot-of-catholic-leader-as-act-of-reconciliation/) (Something else we should note concerning this event is that Billy Graham’s grandson, Will Graham, told his grandfather about this event which was held in the same stadium Billy Graham preached at in 1963. Billy Graham’s response to this news from his grandson was read at the event and is as follows: “I remember preaching in that stadium. It is good that this event is happening." When asked about his mantle of evangelism, Billy Graham answered: "It is not about me. It's only about the glory of God. It's only if we stay focused on Jesus and the cross”).
(https://www.facebook.com/ywamkona/posts/1279476935414733) (Now, right here, some will think, this is wonderful! He is saying stay focused on Jesus and the cross. And, we’ve never said he failed to tell people about Jesus and the cross, but the problem is the mixture. We’ve shown that by his third crusade in 1950, he was already working with Catholics. I mean, what cross are you preaching when you allow that people who deny the finished work of the cross and believe they must achieve salvation through their sacraments, are also saved? It is a damnable, unholy mixture and we cannot be too strong about this! And, sister Tammy, I know you had a few points you wanted to add here).
So why is this a false gospel of billy graham is portraying? – why is ecumenism another gospel?
The reason Ecumenism is another Gospel is that is gives another Jesus that says it is ok to be all under the same God when we have another faith, the idea that one can join with a religious system and say they are both serving God makes it another gospel. There is only one true faith and this is not mixed with works, man’s doing, false gods etc. It is simply Jesus alone, His death for sin, His burial and resurrection. There is no other Gospel message, Jesus finished the work at the cross so anyone adding to or taking away from this truth is giving out another jesus.
In the book of Galatians chapters 1:8 we see Paul warning the believers here of any coming with another gospel - But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.
And later in chapter 3 asked who had bewitched them! –
Galatians 3:1 - O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
It is not a joining point, it is a matter of fighting the good fight of the faith. We never heard Paul say to these believers that we should build the broken bridge to reconciliation with those saying contrary to the true message of Christ! He said any bringing another gospel were accursed.
Thank you, sister Tammy.
And, to continue with the false prophecies: In an article from the Elijah’s List, Lana Vawser, a “prophetess” from Brisbane, Australia, shared the following: “Two years ago, I had a dream and the Lord told me that the time was coming soon where Billy Graham would be called home…At the end of this dream, a prophetic decree was made: "When Billy Graham dies, a DOUBLE PORTION of the Elisha anointing will be released upon the earth!"
As this decree was made the atmosphere was electric. That is the only way I can describe it. It was electric with the power of the Holy Spirit decreeing the end of an era and the beginning of a NEW ERA – the ERA of the GREATEST HARVEST AND MOVE OF THE SPIRIT upon the earth that we had EVER seen.
This decree heralded a time coming to the earth of great increase of signs, wonders and miracles unlike anything we have ever seen that would accompany the pure proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is a great awakening and returning to the beauty, power and simplicity of the Gospel to usher in an incredible harvest of souls. It's awakening not only the evangelists, but awakening the fire of evangelism within the hearts of all Believers. It's the anointing of Billy Graham falling upon a generation of people. The decree established such a branding over this new era that the signs, wonders and miracles that would accompany the proclamation of the Word of God, would be UNPRECEDENTED.” (http://elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=19725) (However, Lana Vawser is a false prophetess with the NAR. On May 25, 2015 there was an article on Elijah’s List entitled: "United States, You are Pregnant with a Glory Story and Destiny Gates are Opening!" Part of the article is as follows: “Just recently I have been feeling a longing on the heart of God for His people to not give up on the United States of America…Suddenly I heard the words ‘Seven mountains of culture’ (media, education, arts, religion, business, government, family). ‘I want to release My people into these seven mountains to bring LIFE to these mountains and see My nation TURNED AROUND, but My people must be in position.’” (http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=14746) (All of this is rubbish, plain and simple. People who are looking for miracles, signs and wonders, are setting themselves up to be deceived by the antichrist, no two ways about it).
Here is part of a prophecy given by Kim Clement on December 30, 2006: “A release of the gift of Faith has been given to the people of God. In the death of Billy Graham and Oral Roberts, a veil shall be torn that shall bring evangelism to the earth as never before…A departure of great men that shall release an acceleration upon this nation and the church, who shall see the Lord in a way, and salvation shall be the order of the day in streets, in factories, on buses, on trains, and in planes. God says, “I’m about to take over the marketplace, and you are the people that shall bring this to pass,’ says the Lord.” (http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word.html?ID=4896) (Well, the talk about taking over the marketplace obviously falls under the Seven Mountain Mandate umbrella that we just mentioned. And, then I found this statement by him from April of 2014: “Within minutes I was in a state of an ecstatic perception, caught into a prophetic elevation, and during this moment I caught a glimpse of a variety of religious garments and oil being poured on them. Then I saw Pope Francis, a massive spiritual renewal, and a shaking in heaven and on earth.” (http://www.elijahlist.com/words/display_word_pf.html?ID=13348) (Well, we can say beyond the shadow of a doubt that anyone connecting Pope Francis to a massive spiritual renewal, with the suggestion that this is from God, is someone described in 2 Cor. 11:13 as a deceitful worker).
Now, I want to share about a video Anita Fuentes posted on youtube on Feb. 21. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANFV3JdLvAs) She is sharing what three others have prophesied concerning the death of Billy Graham.
The first one is TD Hale (pastor of a church in Ohio) who said this in Dec. of 2015 – “Look to when I take my servant, Billy Graham, home. When I do, it shall be a prophetic sign that the age of grace will end soon after. Wake up and be ready for my appearing in this midnight hour, O backslidden church. I am coming for my bride who has made herself ready. Repent and prepare to meet thy God. For to be left behind to endure the wrath upon the wicked of the earth who have hardened their hearts against me. O Earth, Earth, hear ye the Word of the Lord.” And, the second one was given in Dec. of 2011 by Maurice Sklar who is a Messianic Jew: “I am taking Billy Graham home to heaven soon. When you see this know that my time of grace for the Gentile nations is coming to a close. Prepare your hearts; the Lord is at the door to appear for His bride.” (Now, it’s interesting to note these are the only two prophecies I came across which essentially predict the rapture will occur soon after Billy Graham’s death. All the others predict a great awakening as does the third one on this video).
This was given in 2012 by Mark Chironna on a TBN program and many of the listeners have probably heard about this. He stated: “We are going into perhaps the most significant day in church history…There is a company of people that has been hidden in God for a season. They’re coming out of hiding and they’re going to stand in the courts of Pharoah. Like Moses did, and Elijah did, they’re going to challenge demonic spirits. They’re going to challenge the powers of Egypt. The earth is going to see a 21st century manifestation of the demonstration of the Holy Spirit…”There was more, but as soon as he finished Benny Hinn said, “The sign will be Billy Graham’s death. You are talking about a people in hiding, just like Elijah was in hiding, but when he came out he challenged the prophets of Baal. And, the Lord said to me back in 1989 when Oral Roberts and Billy Graham go home, it will be the key. It will be sign of the beginning of the greatest revival. Oral is home and Billy is about to go home, and when he does, I’m telling you the whole church, get ready.” (Well, just to note, as sister Tammy mentioned in the last discussion, Benny Hinn is a false prophet and here are just two examples. He prophesied that Fidel Castro would die in the mid-90’s and he died in 2016. He also prophesied that the homosexual community would be destroyed by God in the mid-90’s, but it is sadly thriving today).
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMIl_81kNyk)
Next, I want to mention a message (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LiCTA0Vbx4&feature=youtu.be&t=1h13m37s) given by a man named Jason Hooper. He pastors a church called King’s Way in Irondale, AL. Here is some of what he said: “I thank You, Lord, that the next Billy Graham could be right here in this room.” And, then, a bit later in the message he was speaking about Oral Roberts and said, “Oral really spoke of faith in healing and Billy, of course, spoke of evangelism. So there’s actually a merging of the mantles that is available to this generation that I believe is going to release the greatest demonstration of faith, healing and evangelism this world has ever known.”
(Well, since Kenneth Copeland, Kim Clement, Benny Hinn, Jason Hooper and others have all mentioned Oral Roberts, I want to give some information about him). He proclaimed the Word of Faith doctrine associated with the prosperity gospel. He had a luxurious lifestyle, wore expensive suits and shoes, rings with diamonds and solid gold bracelets. He flew in his private plane which cost $2 million. He taught that God wants all believers to be rich, healthy and happy. He declared that those who gave to God, and especially to his ministry, would get a financial reward from God. He supported the Toronto Blessing and the "bartender of the Holy Spirit” Rodney Howard Brown. Oral Roberts claimed in 1977 that he had received a vision from God telling him to build the “City of Faith Medical Center.” He claimed that he saw a 900 foot high Jesus, who said that the “City of Faith” center would succeed. So, four years later, in 1981, he opened the center. Then, in 1983, he said that Jesus Christ appeared to him in person (not a vision) and told him to find a cure for cancer. In 1986 Oral Roberts said God had told him, "I want you to use the ORU medical school for my medical presence on earth." And, that he had to collect $8 million for the institute or otherwise God would take him home. In January Oral made the call to the faithful and he said that by April 1 he had received $9,100,000. However, in 1989 City of Faith closed due to bankruptcy. (http://www.rejoicenow.nl/page/oral-roberts-heresy-exposed) (Based on these facts concerning Oral Roberts I cannot believe anyone prophesying a move of God with any connection to this man is truly hearing from God. You know, it just breaks my heart to know people put their faith and trust in men who are just swindlers. And, how odd that as we already mentioned, Billy Graham would say of Oral Roberts that he “was a man of God, and a great friend in ministry.” You know, it seems like no matter what some of these preachers do or say there are other preachers who will support and promote them!).
And, one more example in this section is by Bonnie Jones, who is Bob Jones’ widow. She posted the following on her website: “Today all heaven rejoiced as Billy Graham went home to glory. It was a moment he long awaited to be with his first love Jesus, and to be reunited with his loving wife Ruth. Although I was taken back I remembered the prophecy Bob Jones had regarding Billy Graham. As far back as I can remember Bob would pray for God to extend years to Billy Graham’s life. Bob said, “The body of Christ in not yet ready. When Billy Graham goes home it will release the next great wave. A wave of power evangelism like the world has never seen and it will bring in the greatest harvest of souls.” (http://didyoulearntolove.org/2018/02/21/bob-jones-prophecy-regarding-billy-graham/) (Well, here is a little bit of information about Bob Jones for those who haven’t heard of him. He was part of the Kansas City prophets back in the 1980’s. Others in the group were: Paul Cain, John Paul Jackson, David Parker, Jim Goll, Francis Frangipane and Mike Bickle. Nearly every one of these men was separately or collectively involved in the “Latter Rain” false revivals that have taken place. Several of them are now part of the NAR mainly organized by Peter Wagner who has since passed on.
Bob Jones’ spiritual experiences are extraordinary to say the least. They consist of “Voices,” “angels,” and continual “translations to heaven” which give him new revelations that are not only contrary to Scripture but are easily categorized as of the New Age variety of spirituality. Many of the prophetic/charismatic types, such as Todd Bentley, consider Jones a senior prophet and mentor). (http://letusreason.org/Latrain52.htm)
Well, that is all I have for this time, sister Tammy, and I just want to say thank you for all the information you shared. We just pray people will not be deceived by all those who would lift up Billy Graham and by those who are prophesying these great revivals. We must remain vigilant, be found in God’s Word, and focused on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.