Billy Graham v. Communism (feat. David Aikman)

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Billy Graham may have been the most important evangelist of the 20th century. His words were heard by millions of people around the world. He preached in person, on television, magazines, radio, and film. His impact is still felt today. He is also one of the people most responsible for tying Christianity, Capitalism, and the United States. But his legacy didn't stop there. While he denounced communism, he went to great lengths to ensure that communists had access to the gospel too.

Our guest this episode is David Aikman, author of "Billy Graham: His Life and Influence".

Discussion Questions:

• Is Jesus' message individualistic, collectivist, or something in between?
• If the majority of a nation's citizens say they are Christians, does that make it a Christian nation?
• Does hobnobbing with the wealthy and politically connected occasionally backfire? Like, say, when you've come out backing Richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal as Graham did?
• Is it possible to cross political and theological lines today in order to spread the gospel?
• When do we prioritize the gospel over social issues and when do we have to put our foot down?
• When do you walk out into the stadium and take down the ropes that divide us and when do you leave the ropes where they are?

Helpful Links:

• Graham sermon "A Way of Life" from this episode.
• Newsreel of his 1949 crusade
• Truman's statement on the Soviets having the bomb
• Decision Magazine article about Graham's crisis of faith
• The Evangelicals by Frances Fitzgerald
• One Nation Under God by Kevin Kruse

Topics Discussed:

• Billy Graham's evangelistic efforts in Romania, Hungary, and China
• Was Billy Graham anti-communist?
• Billy Graham's sermons
• Liberal Christians
• Was Billy Graham a fundamentalist?
• What is the difference between fundamentalist and mainline churches?

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