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The Humanitarian Jesus Interview Series Franklin Graham Franklin Graham has been the subject of much current debate and controversy (see National Day of Prayer, etc.), but it would be hard to overstate the shadow cast by his father, especially where preaching the Gospel is concerned. But Franklin appears to be right at home in his own preaching of the Gospel, both in word and deed, as he heads one of the largest Gospel centered humanitarian organizations on the globe (over $300 million in support and revenues in 2008). We spoke over the phone for last year and this is a portion of that conversation… CB: What is the difference between humanitarian work and Christian humanitarian work?
 It never hurts to rehearse the Great Commission, “to go into the whole world and preach the Gospel.” While Christ fed the multitudes and healed individual wounds and sickness, He did so for the purpose of making Himself known to those who were seeking peace from their suffering, from their hunger and thirst, and from their total despair. Christ did not call us to feed people. Christ did not call us to heal people. His followers are called to take His Gospel to the hungry, sick, lonely, tormented and lost. The object of our service toward others is Christ, for He is the only One who can quench thirst, alleviate hunger, and touch the soul with the salve of forgiveness, comfort, and love. That ‘salve’ is the very blood He shed upon the cross for the sins of the world. Through His lifesaving blood we are able to receive all He offers us through His sacrifice. We must remember that there are many organizations that receive funding and do good works. But when they feed empty bellies, they’ll have to keep feeding them lest they starve. No organization can continue to feed the same millions year after year. But when people’s souls are fed, when they are nourished by the Word of God, God will bless those who are dispensing His goodness and He will bless the needy when they put their trust in Him. He will meet their greatest need and give them abundant life in Him. CB: What do you think is the state of Christian humanitarian investment now as opposed to five or ten years ago? FG: While many churches across our country have increased their humanitarian outreach in the name of their communities, their mission programs are shrinking. I believe that the focus on providing human needs has diminished the message we are supposed to carry as good Samaritans. The parable that Jesus told about the Good Samaritan is certainly at the core of the work we do at Samaritan’s Purse. Our purpose in responding to crises around the world is not to help the government provide housing and soup kitchens for refugees, our purpose is to work with people through the storms that beset them to earn the right to proclaim the love of Jesus Christ. This is what compels us to meet the needs of others and to do it unashamedly. Paul said in Romans 1:16 that he was not ashamed of the Gospel because it is the power of God unto salvation. Why would he declare he was not ashamed unless there were people of that day who were ashamed of God’s message? Ashamed to admit their sin? Ashamed to tell others that sin separates all men from God? Ashamed to admit that Christ is the only answer for every problem man encounters on earth. Humanitarianism will not save one soul from Hell. Only through the Gospel—God’s message to all—can man be save. God empowers His Word to forgive sinners and transform their minds, hearts, and souls. I believe the church needs to carefully and thoughtfully declare the motive of its good works toward others. Our motive should be single-minded: to reach out in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and pray that others will see Christ who lives in us.
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