Today’s Topic: Jerry Falwell, R.I.P.
In my opinion, a great American and influential Christian leader died yesterday. Jerry Falwell (age 73) was the long time Pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, VA and the Chancellor of Liberty University, also in Lynchburg. You may be more familiar with Rev. Falwell in his capacity as the host of the weekly TV program “Old Time Gospel Hour” and the founder of the Moral Majority, a very powerful political action organization in the 1980’s.
Whether you agreed with him or not, Falwell always stood his ground and never compromised on what he believed was the truth. His name became synonymous with words and phrases such as religious right, conservative Christian, and televangelist. Falwell held a very traditional interpretation of theHoly Bible and throughout his career emphasized that its teachings were eternally relevant.
I admire Rev. Falwell for his contributions to our history and culture. He was unwavering in his commitment to a Christian life, but also helped and inspired others to live more abundantly. Even though Falwell never compromised on the core tenets of his faith, there were two instances (that I can think of) where his positions “matured,” greatly benefiting himself and others.
Early in his career as a pastor, Falwell belonged to a church affiliation known as “Independent, Fundamental Baptists.” This group believed that they were Baptists first, Christians second, and refused to fellowship with other denominations / affiliations. I have seen from the accounts of family members and friends the lives that this “Independent, Fundamental” organization has destroyed. In time, Rev. Falwell became more evangelical in his approach, recognizing he was a Christian first and Baptist second. By the 1980’s he was widely considered the most admired man in America by a multitude ofChristian sects.
Furthermore, this great man of God once swore that he would never get involved in politics. However, by the late 70’s, he saw the effects of the turbulent times and only after being urged by others – founded the Moral Majority. Through a grassroots effort by local affiliates, Falwell was able to rally voters, (Republican, Democrat, and Unaffiliated) around a socially conservative theme and truly change the landscape of American politics beginning in 1980.
It’s been said before, but it deserves repeating, that Ronald Reagan’s Presidential victory and the Republicans who took control of the U.S. Senate in the ‘80 elections, would not have happened without the leadership of Jerry Falwell. Some people see him as a bigot or as intolerant, and they are entitled to their opinion. Rev. Falwell made some pretty bold statements over the years, but he was not a “flip-flopper” and unlike many deceitful “media evangelists,” he did not preach a “prosperity gospel.”
Brother Falwell, thank you for your inspiration, message, and guidance. To read more about the legacy of Jerry Falwell, check out his official website.http://www.falwell.com
Yours truly,
Kevin
