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According to the book Finishing Strong, in 1945, Billy Graham, Chuck Templeton, and Bron Clifford were three promising evangelists attracting capacity crowds. Bron Clifford once spoke with such influence and power at Baylor University that students cut the tower bells’ ropes to remove any distractions. By age 25, Bron Clifford set more attendance records than any clergyman in American history. Less than ten years later, he left his wife and two children and sold used cars in the Texas panhandle. After being the most sought-after preacher in the United States, Clifford was found dead in a cheap motel room outside Amarillo, Texas.

At the beginning of Chuck Templeton’s ministry, he was labeled the most gifted preacher in America. He and Billy Graham became close friends. Most thought Chuck Templeton would rise to the top. Templeton hosted a weekly religious television show on CBS, Look Up and Live. Shortly after Clifford’s downfall, Templeton declared himself an agnostic. 

Billy Graham, while an imperfect man, was able to share the good news of Christ with thousands and thousands and finished well.

King Solomon started off well, but he slowly and willfully headed towards opening his heart and mind to significantly detestable idol worship.

Reflection: We know how Billy Graham’s story ended. How will yours end? We all have choices. It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish. 

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