Billy Graham on 'What does it mean to follow Jesus?'

Rev. Billy Graham AP Images / Gerry Broome

Evangelist Billy Graham once answered a troubled person inquiring about following Christ, and encouraged thousands of others who read his response. 

The person, identified only as "T.M.," asked Graham what it means to follow Jesus on KansasCity.com. 

"My life is so busy that I can't imagine taking a couple of hours every day to pray, like I guess saintly people are supposed to do," T.M. added. 

Rev. Graham explained that not everyone is given a ministry of prayer. 

"Some men and women may be called by God to do exactly what you say; over the years, I've been humbled to meet some of them," he wrote. "When I get to heaven, I'm sure I'll discover just how important they were in God's work."

The 96-year-old then explained what it means to be a follower of Christ. 

"First, it means to be committed to him as our saviour and Lord," he began.

"This means we want him to be the master of our lives instead of trying to run them ourselves. Have you turned over the control of your life to him?

"Following Christ also means we seek to obey him every day. He knows what is best for us and has told us how he wants us to live in his word, the Bible.

"Is it part of your life every day and are you allowing its truth to shape your mind and heart?

"Finally, following Christ means seeing others through his eyes," Graham continued. "Christ loved the world so much that he was willing to give his life for our salvation.

"Is his Holy Spirit filling us with his love, and are we seeking to touch others for Christ? 

"The Bible says, 'Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us' (Ephesians 5:1-2)."

News
Who was Hilda of Whitby and why is she important?
Who was Hilda of Whitby and why is she important?

19 November is the day when Anglicans remember St Hilda of Whitby. She was a powerful and important woman in the history of the English Church. This is her story.

Over 2,000 anti-Christian hate crimes reported across Europe in 2024
Over 2,000 anti-Christian hate crimes reported across Europe in 2024

Despite a slight drop in overall numbers, the attacks are becoming more violent in nature, a new report has warned.

Cultivating the fruits of the Spirit: Goodness that embodies righteousness and truth
Cultivating the fruits of the Spirit: Goodness that embodies righteousness and truth

We have reached goodness in our journey through the fruits of Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) - a virtue often spoken of but less often understood.

European court accused of overreach after ruling against Poland in disability abortion case
European court accused of overreach after ruling against Poland in disability abortion case

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has come under criticism after ruling against Poland in a case concerning abortion on the grounds of disability.