In His Own Words: Inspirational Reflections on the Life & Wisdom of Billy Graham

Reviewed by:

G. Connor Salter, Professional Writing alumnus from Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Title:

In His Own Words: Inspirational Reflections on the Life & Wisdom of Billy Graham

Author:

Jerry B. Jenkins

Publisher:

Tyndale Momentum (an imprint of Tyndale House Publishers)

https://www.tyndale.com

Publication Date:

September 18, 2018

Format:

Hardcover

Length:

92 pages

OVERVIEW

It’s hard to over-emphasize how much impact Billy Graham had. One of the most famous pastors of the twentieth century, his evangelistic crusades impacted millions. New York Times bestselling writer Jerry B. Jenkins overviews Graham’s life, from his call to ministry to his last years. He also relates Graham’s perspective on different topics, including six key areas: 

• Graham’s particular ministry message
• Graham’s use of comedy throughout his life
• Graham’s take on aging and death
• Graham’s beliefs about heaven
• Graham’s legacy and what he would want to be remembered for

This is the sort of book that’s very easy to produce. Publishers often hire writers to compile quotations and anecdotes about famous people who’ve passed away (often taking the quotes from newspaper clippings and press releases) and then publish the book quickly as possible. Some publishers even take more or less the same book and re-issue it for slightly different audiences (“Charles Spurgeon’s Thoughts on Ministry,” “Charles Spurgeon Quotes for the Holiday Season,” and so forth). What sets this book apart from most is it’s not written by someone who just took the assignment. Jenkins actually met Billy Graham and worked with him for over a year as the ghostwriter for Graham’s autobiography Just As I Am. Consequently, even though the book collects plenty of quotes readers will find in other resources, there’s a personal touch. When Jenkins writes about Graham’s approach to family life or death, he’s writing as someone who actually saw Graham’s behavior up close. This authenticity takes what could have been a very impersonal book written in a machine-like fashion and makes it personal.

A wonderful primer on Billy Graham’s life and beliefs.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5 stars)

5 stars

Suggested Audience

Readers interested in Billy Graham’s life and his particular ministry approach.

Christian Impact

Readers interested in Billy Graham’s life and his particular ministry approach.

Graham’s emphasis on Scripture, humility and moral character will enlighten and encourage many readers.