Speaking at TED in 1998, Rev. Billy Graham marvels at technology’s power to improve lives and change the world — but says the end of evil, suffering, and death will come only after the world accepts Christ. A legendary talk from TED’s archives.
From TED Talks: In his long career as a religious evangelist, the Rev. Billy Graham spoke to millions around the world and served as an advisor to US presidents.
Why you should listen
According to his official bio, evangelist Billy Graham took the Bible literally where it says in Mark 16:15, “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.” It’s possible that Graham preached the Gospel to more people in live audiences than anyone else in history — nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories, with hundreds of millions more through television, video, film, and webcasts.
Graham wrote some 25 books, and his counsel was sought by many US presidents. He was the first major evangelist to speak behind the Iron Curtain, calling for peace in countries throughout Eastern Europe and in the Soviet Union — while during the Apartheid era he refused to visit South Africa until its government allowed for desegregated audiences. Through the praise and criticism of a public life that has nearly spanned a century, he held fast to his conviction that faith in Jesus is the only path to salvation.
What others say
“My one purpose in life is to help people find a personal relationship with God, which, I believe, comes through knowing Christ.” — Billy Graham
