Posted on 11/01/2015 5:59:57 PM PST by SeekAndFind
The Rev. Billy Graham has issued a written warning to America's churches: "Prepare for persecution."
The renowned preacher and founder of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association penned a commentary that was posted on his website last week and is slated to appear in the November edition of Decision magazine.
In the magazine, Graham notes that the American church has been largely unfamiliar with persecution, writing that this "immunity to persecution that Christians in our country have experienced in the past two or three centuries is unusual."
"As a whole, our nation does not know what privation is. We do not know what sacrifice is. We do not know what suffering is. Suppose persecution were to come to the church in America, as it has come in other countries," wrote Graham.
"Since we have experienced little religious persecution in this country, it is likely that under pressure many would deny Christ. Those who shout the loudest about their faith may surrender soonest."
Graham went on to list "five ways to fortify yourself so that you will be able to stand in that day." These included making sure of one's relationship to God, walking with God, regularly reading Scripture, praying always, and meditating on Christ.
"Today our nation ranks as the greatest power on the face of the Earth. But if we put our trust in armed might instead of Almighty God, the coming conflict could conceivably go against us," continued Graham.
"History and the Bible indicate that mechanical and material might are insufficient in times of great crisis."
For many years, some — especially in socially conservative circles — have argued that the United States is gradually marginalizing Christians.
They point to things like the censorship of manger scenes and Ten Commandments displays on government property and an inherent growth of secularism in media.
In recent years, Graham's son, the Rev. Franklin Graham, has become an outspoken critic of what he believes to be growing hostility toward Christians in America.
Earlier in October, Franklin Graham wrote a Facebook post in which he viewed the shooting at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, as an example.
Chris Harper-Mercer opened fire on students at Umpqua, killing nine and wounding seven others before fatally shooting himself. Early reports indicated that he specifically targeted Christian students.
"Persecution and targeting of Christians isn't just in Iran or the Middle East, it's right here in America," wrote Franklin Graham.
"The bold souls at Umpqua Community College who stood up to say they were followers of Jesus Christ were heinously gunned down with no mercy. Jesus said, 'If they hate you, remember they hated me before they hated you,' (John 15:18)."
So Billy, are you saying giving sanction to a leftist cult member that was pro gay and pro abortion wasn’t such a smart move?
Who endorsed the persecutor Billy? You?
Yes. You.
Billy, don’t worry. Expect massive retaliation. We will not take it long. We are legion.
Catholics in the Middle East have already done so. Some have lost their heads for it. Will it happen here? Has it already?
Why can’t they say persecution by Islam, buy the Left? Why do we leave it hanging in the air as to where the persecution is coming from?
You know, and I know, so why do we have to wink, and nod?
Say it! Muslim’s, and their allies on the Left with their mindless liberal groupies.
Satan attacks that which he fears the most.
I may be murdered for my faith one day, but not without a fight.
” if we put our trust in armed might instead of Almighty God...”
... then we might not end up like the Christians in the Middle East. It isn’t an either/or, my friend. You are best served praising the Lord while passing the ammunition.
“We are legion.”
Uhm no . Please read Mark chapter 5 .
I’ve always been a fan of Billy Graham.... but I have to say.... it doesn’t take rocket science to figure out and see that persecution is coming, and that MANY in the church (the tares) will fall away.
Haven’t heard about this. Please provide a little more detail.
History shows that the church often grows in the face of persecution.
Billy says he is a Democrat. Katie Couric interview on youtube.
He avoided talking politics in his ministry because he didn’t want to lose half his audience. It’s in the interview.
I certainly hope his son Franklin is the real deal. I think Samaritans Purse is a worthwhile organization.
I think the prophecy is there will be a great falling away before the end??
Leftist will put us in jail or fine us.
Muslims will make us pay fines or kill us.
Welcome to the future.
RE: Haven’t heard about this. Please provide a little more detail.
I think he was referring to a controversial statement ( and I personally believe, not serious but statement said in jest ) made by Billy Graham in his final crusade at Flushing Meadows Park ( site of the worlds fair ) in Queens, New York in 2005.
He was close to 87 years old then ( he is 96 today ).
At that time, many celebrities ( Jewish folks like Mayor Bloomberg and Catholics like Mayor Giuliani were in attendance ). Of course, Bill and Hillary were there as well ( as was I, so I heard what he said ).
Speaking to tens of thousands of people on the second night of his crusade in New York City, Billy Graham stood by the side of former President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary.
Graham said “Mrs. Clinton might make a good President.†He called Bill Clinton and his wife “good friends†and “a great couple.†Graham said that the former President “should become an evangelist and let his wife to run the country.â€
After being endorsed by Graham, Hillary gave a “testimony†and former President Bill Clinton praised Graham for integrating his crusades in the late 1950’s.
I’m sorry but if Billy Graham is a democrat I hope he rots in hell. And I’ve always admired him. Bill and Hilary are evil scum.
Do a search on his and Franks Romney endorsement in 12.
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