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If you like American history, politics, or Billy Graham (or all three), you will love this book! The Preacher and the Presidents: Billy Graham in the White House tells the story of Billy Graham’s relationship with eleven presidents (from Harry Truman to George W. Bush). Nancy Gibbs and Michael Duffy have given us a book filled with meticulous research that will serve as a guide for evangelicals who seek to enter the murky waters of politics.

The Preacher and the Presidents could easily be divided into two parts: Before Nixon and After Nixon. Graham’s relationship to the presidents changes dramatically after Nixon’s disgrace. Before Nixon, Graham served as a pastor/political advisor. With a clear understanding of the general public’s feelings on many issues, Graham advised the presidents regarding their communication, their stance on important issues, and the spiritual tone they should set for the country.

During the early years, Graham and the presidents used each other. The presidents needed him by their side for his personal support and his public persona. Graham needed the presidents to further his name and increase attendance at his crusades.

At times, the book shows Graham to be prophetic. He speaks out for nuclear disarmament when the White House disagrees. He urges the presidents to cast themselves upon the mercy of the Lord. He refuses to compromise on key issues, even under presidential pressure. He desegregates his crusades during the civil rights era.

At other times, Graham is hopelessly naive. No president exposed Graham’s lack of judgment more than Nixon, who managed to con and fool Graham just as he did the entire nation.

Graham learns many lessons, especially after the Nixon fiasco. Yet, instead of improving his lack of discernment, Graham chooses to withdraw from the political limelight. Acknowledging his weaknesses and past failures, he learns from his mistakes and begins befriending the presidents instead of advising them.

The Preacher and the Presidents is a testament to Billy Graham’s legacy – both how and how not to mix politics and religion. It is also a testament to his evangelistic courage. No president was too powerful to miss out on Graham’s presentation of the gospel.

written by Trevin Wax  © 2007 Kingdom People blog

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