The 86-year-old evangelist Billy Graham was named by pastors across the board as having the greatest influence on churches and being the most trusted spokesperson for Christianity, according to a new report from George Barna (who found himself in the 8th spot for greatest influence). The likes of Rick Warren, George W. Bush and James Dobson top the list of greatest influencers, with a similar list for spokesperson minus Bush and including T.D. Jakes.
With the exception of T.D. Jakes, the top ten lists for all pastors from both categories feature nothing but white men. On a day like today that honors arguably the greatest church leader of the 20th century, it’s sad to see that Sunday morning is still the most segregated hour of the week.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream and the Church rose up and left a mark on history. It seems a disservice to call it marketing, but it certainly has to be the Church at its best. If only the church of all places could live up to King’s dream.
“Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over, and I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight, that we as a people will get to the Promised Land. And I’m happy tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.” (from a sermon King delivered the night before he was assassinated.)
More
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Why and how your church should celebrate, including free social graphics to share.
- See more of our posts on Martin Luther King Jr.
