One Race, Two Destinies

In real life, many people begin their journeys with passion and purpose, only to be brought down by the pressures and pitfalls of life. However, some persevere, even through challenges, and finish their race well. Let me take you through the true stories of two men—Jim Bakker and Billy Graham—both of whom started with a burning desire to serve God, but only one finished strong.

Jim Bakker was a well-known televangelist in the 1970s and 1980s, leading a successful ministry and founding the television network PTL (Praise the Lord) Club. He gained national attention for his charismatic preaching and the rapid growth of his ministry. He built Heritage USA, a Christian theme park that attracted millions of visitors annually and became a symbol of his success.

However, Bakker’s rise was followed by a dramatic fall. Despite starting strong, Bakker’s ministry was soon plagued by controversy and financial misconduct. In 1987, it was revealed that Bakker had an affair with Jessica Hahn, and he tried to cover it up by paying her hush money. This moral failure, compounded by his obsession with building wealth and expanding his empire, led to a massive scandal. Investigations into PTL revealed that Bakker had been involved in fraudulent activities, including overselling partnerships to his supporters.

As a result, Bakker was convicted of fraud and conspiracy and sentenced to 45 years in prison (though he only served five). His ministry collapsed, and his once bright future in Christian leadership was overshadowed by scandal. Bakker’s story is a tragic reminder of how moral failure and an obsession with wealth can bring down even those who start with the best intentions.

Bakker’s fall echoes the warning in 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” Bakker, once a passionate servant of God, became entangled in his desire for wealth and success, losing sight of his original mission. His story shows how important it is to remain humble, obedient, and accountable in the Christian life.

In contrast, Billy Graham is an inspiring example of a man who not only started well but finished his race with integrity, faith, and purpose. Known as one of the most influential evangelists in history, Billy Graham preached to millions of people around the world, consistently pointing people to Christ. His ministry began in the 1940s, and he soon gained a reputation for being a clear, passionate preacher of the gospel.

Despite facing many challenges throughout his ministry—including personal attacks, health issues, and the temptations that often accompany success—Graham remained steadfast in his faith and mission. Unlike Jim Bakker, who fell into the trap of greed and moral failure, Graham established strong boundaries early in his ministry. He followed the “Modesto Manifesto,” a personal code of ethics that helped him avoid the financial and moral scandals that often plague high-profile ministries. This code emphasised integrity in financial dealings, sexual purity, and accountability.

Graham was also known for his humility and reliance on God. Despite his massive success, he continually acknowledged his dependence on God for guidance and wisdom. He kept his message focused on the gospel, avoiding controversial or divisive topics that could distract from his primary mission of preaching Christ.

In his later years, Graham remained active in ministry, continuing to inspire millions through his books, sermons, and interviews. Even as his health declined, he remained a faithful witness to God’s grace and truth. At the age of 99, Billy Graham passed away, having finished his race well. In his final years, Graham echoed the words of the Apostle Paul: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

The contrasting lives of Jim Bakker and Billy Graham offer several important lessons for all Christians: