Billy Graham: America's Pastor

Heroes of History #22

by Janet Benge

The oldest son of dairy farmers from Charlotte, North Carolina, young Billy Graham (1918-) attended evangelical revival meetings that inspired him for the rest of his life. As an ordained minister, he rose to prominence and would subsequently preach the Christian message to over 200 million people in 185 countries. Graham championed civil rights, befriended US politicians and presidents, and traveled the world to places no one else dared to go. His life and ministry have shaped the spiritual life of America and offer hope for the future -- inspiring new generations of leaders willing to serve with courage, integrity, and vision.

Genres: Biography, Christian, History, Nonfiction, Christianity, Childrens, Faith

208 pages, Paperback

First published March 20, 2014

About the author

Janet and Geoff Benge are a husband and wife writing team with twenty years of writing experience. They are best known for the books in the two series Christian Heroes: Then & Now series and Heroes of History. Janet is a former elementary school teacher. Geoff holds a degree in history. Together they have a passion to make history come alive for a new generation. Originally from New Zealand, the Benges make their home in the Orlando, Florida, area.

Reviews

[Daniel Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Billy Graham made a difference spreading Christianity across the US and the world. He was at his height during the 1950s, 60s & 70s. He openly opposed segregation and often stated that Christianity was not a white man’s religion. He was slowed with Parkinson’s Disease but lived for 99 years.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went to a Billy Graham crusade in high school, but I didn't really know much about him. His wife was a saint for allowing him to travel as he did. This book really gave a bigger picture to the man.

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doubles as a great history overview of the 20th century

[Rachael Stoldt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting biography. Also fitted in very well with our history and parts of his life crossed the lives of others we were studying in history.

[Lisa Peplow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Billy Graham: America's Pastor, authored by Janet and Geoff Benge, is a captivating masterpiece that unveils the extraordinary life and profound ministry of one of America's most revered spiritual leaders. Having initially been drawn to the Benges' remarkable storytelling through their book on C.S. Lewis, I found myself irresistibly compelled to embark on a literary journey through their extensive body of work. With nearly 100 books under their belts, it is evident that these authors possess an exceptional talent for weaving together captivating narratives. And so, armed with a stack of their works and a heart eager to explore, I brace myself for a delightful adventure that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.

In Billy Graham: America's Pastor, the Benges skillfully recount the inspiring tale of a young man born to dairy farmers in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was amidst the fervor of evangelical revival meetings that the embers of Billy Graham's spiritual destiny were first kindled, forever shaping the course of his life. With meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of their subject, the authors expertly trace Graham's ascent to prominence as an ordained minister, illuminating his unwavering dedication to spreading the Christian message across the globe.

[Chandler Herson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read and a “condensed” version of what was otherwise an amazing life. I loved his reply when asked about putting his name along the Hollywood “walk of fame” and some other humorous moments in his early life(I.e.- “converting alligators”)
Other parts were interesting to me, including that he loved so long after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I read parts of this with our children and I highly recommend this to other parents!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Billy Graham’s message will never grow old. Throughout his life, he focused on Christ and the people around him. He never gave up, never gave in and loved others unconditionally. What an example of living for Christ.

[Lady Safari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a re-listen. This mans life is such an inspiration! I still catch his program: Peace with God on Trans World Radio.

The narrator is good! Thank you!

[Bennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good account of the life of Rev Billy Graham. The world needs more people like him these days.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing man & life

[Adam Balshan · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars [Biography]
(W 2.65 | P 2.88 | T 2.5)
Exact rating: 2.68

[Abby Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book that described Billy Graham's life.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this book! We listened to it with our kids. The gospel came to my family through Billy Graham. My grandpa was saved listening to his preaching on the tv.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful biography

[J Adele LaCombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Billy Graham's life is an inspiration to me on living a faith filled Christ centered life. This biography shared many things about his story I didn't know before. It was encouraged and convicted. In trying to read a biography every month it inspired me to listen to this one, that has been such a great thing, as I'm listening to story I might not of otherwise.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful biography of Billy Graham! I realized how very little I knew about this great evangelist and this book has me interested to learn more about what he did during his life.