Metro Voice News Celebrating Faith, Family & Community
Search for Jesus, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association‘s online evangelism initiative, has reached a significant milestone, with 20 million decisions for Christ since its launch in 2011. The global ministry, now active in English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese and American Sign Language uses scripture, compelling video content and live chat interactions to share the Gospel with visitors from around the world.
“This unique ministry allows us to share the gospel through the screen of a phone or computer in places where we aren’t allowed to preach in stadiums,” said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the association. “As long as there is an internet connection, we can take the good news of Jesus Christ into the hardest-to-reach countries on earth.”
“When BGEA was founded nearly 75 years ago, this is something that my father never would have dreamed could be possible. I’m so grateful that millions of people in 242 countries and territories have heard the Gospel through this ministry and have responded by putting their faith and trust in Jesus Christ. This isn’t something we have done. God has done this, and we give him the glory.”
One of the most thrilling things about the website is the Real-time Decision counter. Every few seconds it logs the country where a decision has just been made.
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More than 3.3 million of those who indicated a decision for Christ also have provided their contact information for follow-up and spiritual growth, which is supported by a network of more than 1,750 trained volunteers who offer nearly 24/7 support to people seeking spiritual guidance. Together, these volunteers reply to more than 1,000 questions a day through various digital platforms including chat, text, email, and social media messages, with 300 to 400 of them, on average, turning into longer spiritual conversations. The volunteers answer questions about faith, explain the gospel, mentor new believers through Bible studies, and connect people with churches.
“While our traditional citywide stadium events remain a powerful method for sharing the hope of Jesus Christ, the digital landscape offers us a unique opportunity to reach people exactly where they are,” said Mark Appleton, vice president of internet evangelism. “We are witnessing a tremendous response from individuals at crucial moments in their lives when they are most in need of the gospel.”
More information is available at www.SearchForJesus.net.
–Dwight Widaman | Metro Voice
