Charles Stanley |
Charles Frazier Stanley (1932-2023) was Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, after serving as senior pastor for 49 years. Stanley was born in Dry Fork, Virginia, just nine months before his father died. Stanley grew up in rural Dry Fork in the outskirts of Danville. At the age of 12, Charles became a born-again Christian, and at age 14, began his life's work in Christian ministry.
The Evolution of Brooke Ligertwood
Ligertwood had been spending a lot of time digging into the life of Dr. Charles Stanley after he passed away last year, when she came across his thoughts on obedience.“One of my favorite things he said was, ‘Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him,’” she shared. “An obedience of consequence happens when you obey God without regard for the consequence, which I think is a pretty counter-cultural way to live. We’re often a real results-driven culture, but what a beautiful and freeing thing it is to live a life of faith that really trusts God with the results and leaves the consequences to Him." (Relevant Magazine 1/26/24) READ MORE>>>>>
Ligertwood had been spending a lot of time digging into the life of Dr. Charles Stanley after he passed away last year, when she came across his thoughts on obedience.“One of my favorite things he said was, ‘Obey God and leave all the consequences to Him,’” she shared. “An obedience of consequence happens when you obey God without regard for the consequence, which I think is a pretty counter-cultural way to live. We’re often a real results-driven culture, but what a beautiful and freeing thing it is to live a life of faith that really trusts God with the results and leaves the consequences to Him." (Relevant Magazine 1/26/24) READ MORE>>>>>
The Good Pastors Are Under Siege
Thirty years ago, I was a student at Dallas Theological Seminary, the same seminary that Pastor Andy Stanley attended. See, God had used Pastor Charles Stanley when I was 17 years old to confirm for me that I was called to be a pastor. I was really struggling, and I turned on the television and Pastor Charles Stanley was preaching, and he said strangely enough, “Are you struggling with whether God has called you to be a pastor?” I said out loud, “Yeah, how’d you know?” I sat down and listened. Pastor Charles Stanley said, “If you can do anything else and be happy, don’t be a pastor, but if you can’t, know you are called.” I rose from that moment and committed the rest of my life to being a pastor. I headed off to Liberty University and then with my wife, Tosha, whom I met at Liberty, we headed to Dallas Theological Seminary to prepare for the pastorate to get ready to plant a church with the Southern Baptist Convention.
(Kelly M Williams/The Good Pastors 11/14/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
Thirty years ago, I was a student at Dallas Theological Seminary, the same seminary that Pastor Andy Stanley attended. See, God had used Pastor Charles Stanley when I was 17 years old to confirm for me that I was called to be a pastor. I was really struggling, and I turned on the television and Pastor Charles Stanley was preaching, and he said strangely enough, “Are you struggling with whether God has called you to be a pastor?” I said out loud, “Yeah, how’d you know?” I sat down and listened. Pastor Charles Stanley said, “If you can do anything else and be happy, don’t be a pastor, but if you can’t, know you are called.” I rose from that moment and committed the rest of my life to being a pastor. I headed off to Liberty University and then with my wife, Tosha, whom I met at Liberty, we headed to Dallas Theological Seminary to prepare for the pastorate to get ready to plant a church with the Southern Baptist Convention.
(Kelly M Williams/The Good Pastors 11/14/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
April 28, 2023: Crosswalk: Charles Stanley's Grandson Under Fire for Auctioning off Late Pastor's Possessions
The grandson of late pastor Dr. Charles Stanley is facing backlash for putting his grandfather's personal items up for sale on eBay.
The grandson of late pastor Dr. Charles Stanley is facing backlash for putting his grandfather's personal items up for sale on eBay.
Danny Akin
“Charles Stanley made an impact on my life from the time I was a child. My mother would watch him every Sunday morning as we got ready for church. Later God raised him up at a critical time in the life of our Convention and the Conservative Resurgence. We are debtors to this servant of Christ.”
--Danny Akin, president, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary 4.18.23
“Charles Stanley made an impact on my life from the time I was a child. My mother would watch him every Sunday morning as we got ready for church. Later God raised him up at a critical time in the life of our Convention and the Conservative Resurgence. We are debtors to this servant of Christ.”
--Danny Akin, president, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary 4.18.23
charles stanley obituary
ATLANTA, Ga. — In Touch Ministries has announced that beloved pastor Dr. Charles Frazier Stanley passed away at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at age 90.
Visitation is sheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church Atlanta, 4400 North Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, GA 30338. The memorial service will be a private, family-only gathering.
Known to audiences around the world through his wide-reaching TV and radio broadcasts, Stanley modeled his 65 years of ministry after the apostle Paul’s message in Acts 20:24: “Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about God’s mighty kindness and love.”
Born Sept. 25, 1932, at the height of the Great Depression, in Dry Fork, Virginia, Stanley was raised by a single mother after his father died when Stanley was only nine months old.
After receiving a call to ministry at the age of 14, Stanley earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Richmond in Richmond, Virginia, and a Bachelor of Divinity at Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He later went on to earn the distinctions of Master and Doctor of Theology from Luther Rice Seminary in Atlanta.
It was 1971 when Stanley assumed his longtime role as senior pastor of First Baptist Atlanta. The following year, he launched his foray into broadcast ministry with a 30-minute program, The Chapel Hour, on Atlanta-area TV stations WXIA and WANX (now WGCL).
The Chapel Hour—renamed In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley—went nationwide in 1978 after the Christian Broadcasting Network contacted Stanley, looking for a practical, Bible-teaching program for its new satellite distribution network. At no cost to First Baptist Atlanta, the broadcast grew from 16,000 local viewers to a nationwide audience in just one week. Stanley was the country’s longest-serving pastor with a continuous weekly broadcast program.
By 1982, In Touch Ministries was incorporated and the In Touch radio broadcast entered syndication. During the 1980s, the In Touch program penetrated almost every major market in the United States, reaching more than 1 million households. At the time of his death, Stanley’s messages were heard in more than 127 languages around the world via radio, shortwave, the Messenger Lab project, or TV broadcasts.
Believing, as he often said, that people are to “obey God and leave all the consequences to Him," Stanley focused his preaching on practical, Christ-centered, biblically based principles for everyday life. Many of his messages incorporated the 30 Life Principles that guided his life and helped him grow in his knowledge, service, and love of God. Other messages tackled such topics as parenting, finances, personal crises, emotions and relationships, prayer, and the character of God. Not having sought out the public spotlight, Stanley was a pastor who happened to be on TV, focused on teaching others how to seek and obey God through adversity and personal hardships.
Notable organizations and publishers honored Stanley throughout his long ministry. Stanley served two terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention in 1985 and 1986. In 1988, he was inducted into the National Religious Broadcasters Hall of Fame for the consistent excellence of his broadcast, and leadership in the realm of Christian TV and radio. Religious Heritage of America named him Clergyman of the Year in 1989, an award that recognizes pastors who strive to make Judeo-Christian principles part of America’s daily life. In 1993, the NRB honored In Touch with the Television Producer of the Year award, and in 1999, with the Radio Program of the Year award. Most recently, Stanley was recognized for selling more than 10 million copies of his more than 70 books, the latest of which was published in 2023.
He was known, too, for his love of photography. Stanley’s images from his personal travels fill the walls of In Touch Ministries’ Atlanta headquarters and inspire program viewers to explore the beauty of God’s creation.
In September 2020, Stanley transitioned to the role of pastor emeritus of First Baptist Atlanta after serving 50 years as senior pastor.
Stanley is survived by his son Andy Stanley, founding and senior pastor of North Point Ministries; daughter Becky Stanley Broderson; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and half-sister Susie Cox. His former wife, Anna Johnson Stanley, preceded him in death. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to In Touch Ministries.
Visitation is sheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church Atlanta, 4400 North Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, GA 30338. The memorial service will be a private, family-only gathering.
Known to audiences around the world through his wide-reaching TV and radio broadcasts, Stanley modeled his 65 years of ministry after the apostle Paul’s message in Acts 20:24: “Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about God’s mighty kindness and love.”
Born Sept. 25, 1932, at the height of the Great Depression, in Dry Fork, Virginia, Stanley was raised by a single mother after his father died when Stanley was only nine months old.
After receiving a call to ministry at the age of 14, Stanley earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Richmond in Richmond, Virginia, and a Bachelor of Divinity at Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He later went on to earn the distinctions of Master and Doctor of Theology from Luther Rice Seminary in Atlanta.
It was 1971 when Stanley assumed his longtime role as senior pastor of First Baptist Atlanta. The following year, he launched his foray into broadcast ministry with a 30-minute program, The Chapel Hour, on Atlanta-area TV stations WXIA and WANX (now WGCL).
The Chapel Hour—renamed In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley—went nationwide in 1978 after the Christian Broadcasting Network contacted Stanley, looking for a practical, Bible-teaching program for its new satellite distribution network. At no cost to First Baptist Atlanta, the broadcast grew from 16,000 local viewers to a nationwide audience in just one week. Stanley was the country’s longest-serving pastor with a continuous weekly broadcast program.
By 1982, In Touch Ministries was incorporated and the In Touch radio broadcast entered syndication. During the 1980s, the In Touch program penetrated almost every major market in the United States, reaching more than 1 million households. At the time of his death, Stanley’s messages were heard in more than 127 languages around the world via radio, shortwave, the Messenger Lab project, or TV broadcasts.
Believing, as he often said, that people are to “obey God and leave all the consequences to Him," Stanley focused his preaching on practical, Christ-centered, biblically based principles for everyday life. Many of his messages incorporated the 30 Life Principles that guided his life and helped him grow in his knowledge, service, and love of God. Other messages tackled such topics as parenting, finances, personal crises, emotions and relationships, prayer, and the character of God. Not having sought out the public spotlight, Stanley was a pastor who happened to be on TV, focused on teaching others how to seek and obey God through adversity and personal hardships.
Notable organizations and publishers honored Stanley throughout his long ministry. Stanley served two terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention in 1985 and 1986. In 1988, he was inducted into the National Religious Broadcasters Hall of Fame for the consistent excellence of his broadcast, and leadership in the realm of Christian TV and radio. Religious Heritage of America named him Clergyman of the Year in 1989, an award that recognizes pastors who strive to make Judeo-Christian principles part of America’s daily life. In 1993, the NRB honored In Touch with the Television Producer of the Year award, and in 1999, with the Radio Program of the Year award. Most recently, Stanley was recognized for selling more than 10 million copies of his more than 70 books, the latest of which was published in 2023.
He was known, too, for his love of photography. Stanley’s images from his personal travels fill the walls of In Touch Ministries’ Atlanta headquarters and inspire program viewers to explore the beauty of God’s creation.
In September 2020, Stanley transitioned to the role of pastor emeritus of First Baptist Atlanta after serving 50 years as senior pastor.
Stanley is survived by his son Andy Stanley, founding and senior pastor of North Point Ministries; daughter Becky Stanley Broderson; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and half-sister Susie Cox. His former wife, Anna Johnson Stanley, preceded him in death. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to In Touch Ministries.
Steve Gaines Files
“Charles Stanley was a pioneer in Christian broadcasting. For decades his television ministry, In Touch, reached millions of people with the Gospel of Christ. He was a great man of God and he will be missed.”--Steve Gaines, former SBC president; April 18, 2023
2023
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Apr 20, 2023: Christianity Today: Charles Stanley's grandson shares how his grandfather's words saved him from suicide
The grandson of Charles Stanley is reflecting on how his grandfather's words saved him from suicide and how the late pastor's lifelong faithfulness to the Gospel served as a source of solace throughout his turbulent life. |
"A few years ago, while living in Los Angeles, I was struggling with drugs and alcohol and deep depression; I blew all of my inheritance money," the 29-year-old told The Christian Post. "I was suicidal. I called my mom, and I said, 'I'm not doing well. I've failed.' I was thinking about killing myself." In the depths of his depression, Brodersen received a phone call from his grandfather that changed his life. 4.20.23 |
April 19, 2023: Church Leaders: Andy Stanley Reflects on His Father’s Passing as Church Leaders Offer Tributes to Charles Stanley
North Point Ministries founder Andy Stanley has said that his “final few weeks” with his father, Dr. Charles Stanley, who passed away at age 90 the morning of Tuesday, April 18, were “precious beyond words.”
“At the end of every visit, he asked me to pray for him,” said Andy. “Which of course I did. On my knees beside the big leather chair he was confined to for the past several months.”
North Point Ministries founder Andy Stanley has said that his “final few weeks” with his father, Dr. Charles Stanley, who passed away at age 90 the morning of Tuesday, April 18, were “precious beyond words.”
“At the end of every visit, he asked me to pray for him,” said Andy. “Which of course I did. On my knees beside the big leather chair he was confined to for the past several months.”
Jason K Allen
“With Dr. Charles Stanley’s passing Southern Baptists have lost one our leading figures of the past half century. Dr. Stanley stepped forward as a candidate for the presidency of the Southern Baptist Convention at a most pivotal time in the life and history of our denomination. His election to that post in 1984 was a decisive turning point, moving the SBC further down the road of theological recovery. More broadly, he continued to serve Southern Baptists from the pulpit of First Baptist Church of Atlanta and through his In Touch ministries, whose viewership spanned the globe. For these reasons and more, multitudes of Southern Baptists mourn Dr. Stanley’s passing.”
--Jason K. Allen, president, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 4.18.23
--Jason K. Allen, president, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 4.18.23
Jef Iorg Files
“Charles Stanley had a remarkable ability to make the Bible accessible to everyday believers. His practice of preaching profound truths with simple clarity was a gift to the church and an example to preachers today.”
--Jeff Iorg, president, Gateway Seminary; 4.18.23
Dr. Charles Stanley died today at the age of 90.
He was the long time pastor of the First Baptist Church, Atlanta.
Feb 6, 2023: Singing News: DR. CHARLES STANLEY’S IN TOUCH MINISTRIES NAMED AS NQC TITLE SPONSOR
In Touch Ministries, the ministry founded by Dr. Charles Stanley, has been announced as the title sponsor of the 2023 National Quartet Convention.
The announcement was made today by the National Quartet Convention’s (NQC) board of directors. NQC 2023 will be held September 24-30, 2023, in Pigeon Forge, TN, at the LeConte Center
“In Touch Ministries is excited to be a part of the 2023 National Quartet Convention,” said Seth Grey, Chief Communications Officer of In Touch Ministries. “Southern Gospel music has been vital to the encouragement and discipleship of Christians worldwide. As an organization that features many music artists on the In Touch television program, we look forward to a week of inspiring music and meeting In Touch friends from around the country.”
In Touch Ministries, the ministry founded by Dr. Charles Stanley, has been announced as the title sponsor of the 2023 National Quartet Convention.
The announcement was made today by the National Quartet Convention’s (NQC) board of directors. NQC 2023 will be held September 24-30, 2023, in Pigeon Forge, TN, at the LeConte Center
“In Touch Ministries is excited to be a part of the 2023 National Quartet Convention,” said Seth Grey, Chief Communications Officer of In Touch Ministries. “Southern Gospel music has been vital to the encouragement and discipleship of Christians worldwide. As an organization that features many music artists on the In Touch television program, we look forward to a week of inspiring music and meeting In Touch friends from around the country.”
2022
Oct 24, 2022: Baptist Press: $3M gift will help launch Charles Stanley center at Truett-McConnell
Emir Caner, president of Truett McConnell University, has announced that the university has received a gift of $3 million, the second largest gift in the school’s 76-year history and the first gift of its kind for the purpose of endowing a faculty chair. The gift will be used to endow in perpetuity the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Chair of Theology and to fund the Global Impact Center in Miller Hall, the building which serves as the centerpiece of the TMU campus.
Emir Caner, president of Truett McConnell University, has announced that the university has received a gift of $3 million, the second largest gift in the school’s 76-year history and the first gift of its kind for the purpose of endowing a faculty chair. The gift will be used to endow in perpetuity the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Chair of Theology and to fund the Global Impact Center in Miller Hall, the building which serves as the centerpiece of the TMU campus.
Aug 29, 2022: Ministry Watch: Stanley’s In Touch Ministries Continues Steady Growth, Experiences Surplus in Assets
In Touch Ministries, the outreach of long-time Baptist pastor Dr. Charles Stanley, continues to grow despite Stanley approaching 90 years of age. The ministry’s 2019 revenue topped $97-million. And since 2015 the organization has seen more than a tripling of its cash assets.
In Touch Ministries, the outreach of long-time Baptist pastor Dr. Charles Stanley, continues to grow despite Stanley approaching 90 years of age. The ministry’s 2019 revenue topped $97-million. And since 2015 the organization has seen more than a tripling of its cash assets.
Feb 24, 2022: Malaysian Digest:
Where Is Charles Stanley From?Charles Stanley / Dry Fork, VACharles Stanley / Place of birth
What Is Charles Stanleys Net Worth? Net Worth:$1.5 MillionProfession:Writer, Televangelist, Pastor, Photographer
Nationality:United States of America
Is Andy Stanley Married? The husband and wife team of Andy and Sandra Stanley.
What Is Dr Charles Stanley Doing Now? I would like to personally thank Charles F. Lee for his many years of service. Previously, Stanley served as the senior pastor at First Baptist Church Atlanta. In addition to becoming pastor emeritus, Stanley has planned to be actively involved with In Touch Ministries, founded in 1992.
Where Is Dr Charles Stanley Located? Dr. Charles F. Reed runs In Touch Missions worldwide. At First Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA, Stanley is the Senior Pastor.
What Religion Is In Touch Ministries?Charles Stanley was the pastor emeritus of First Baptist Atlanta and the former president of Southern Baptist Convention in the 1970s when he founded In Touch Ministries.
Is Dr Charles Stanley Still Alive Today? Despite what some may believe, Charles Stanley is still alive and well. Even so, it seems that he has died for some reason, and the internet is rife with false rumors. This hoax occurred at the beginning of May, and seems to have existed since then. We have many obituaries written about him, but none mention him as deceased.
What Is Dr Charles Stanleys Salary? A total compensation package of $15,021,172 was received by Stanley. The total compensation included $158,868 as salary, $0 for bonuses, $392,931 for stock options, $8,632,155 for stock and $5,837,218 for other pay types.
Where Is Charles Stanley From?Charles Stanley / Dry Fork, VACharles Stanley / Place of birth
What Is Charles Stanleys Net Worth? Net Worth:$1.5 MillionProfession:Writer, Televangelist, Pastor, Photographer
Nationality:United States of America
Is Andy Stanley Married? The husband and wife team of Andy and Sandra Stanley.
What Is Dr Charles Stanley Doing Now? I would like to personally thank Charles F. Lee for his many years of service. Previously, Stanley served as the senior pastor at First Baptist Church Atlanta. In addition to becoming pastor emeritus, Stanley has planned to be actively involved with In Touch Ministries, founded in 1992.
Where Is Dr Charles Stanley Located? Dr. Charles F. Reed runs In Touch Missions worldwide. At First Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA, Stanley is the Senior Pastor.
What Religion Is In Touch Ministries?Charles Stanley was the pastor emeritus of First Baptist Atlanta and the former president of Southern Baptist Convention in the 1970s when he founded In Touch Ministries.
Is Dr Charles Stanley Still Alive Today? Despite what some may believe, Charles Stanley is still alive and well. Even so, it seems that he has died for some reason, and the internet is rife with false rumors. This hoax occurred at the beginning of May, and seems to have existed since then. We have many obituaries written about him, but none mention him as deceased.
What Is Dr Charles Stanleys Salary? A total compensation package of $15,021,172 was received by Stanley. The total compensation included $158,868 as salary, $0 for bonuses, $392,931 for stock options, $8,632,155 for stock and $5,837,218 for other pay types.
Feb 21, 2022: Daily Devotions & News: IN TOUCH MINISTRIES; CHARLES STANLEY – HOW TO DEAL WITH SIN
We can’t eliminate sin from our life, but we can confess it to the Lord and draw closer to Him.
We can’t eliminate sin from our life, but we can confess it to the Lord and draw closer to Him.
2021
Oct 27, 2021: Baptist News Global: In Touch grants Southwestern Seminary $2 million to endow academic chair named for Charles Stanley
In Touch Ministries, the global broadcasting ministry founded by Charles Stanley in 1977, has made a $2 million gift to Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to create an endowed chair in Stanley’s name.
In Touch Ministries, the global broadcasting ministry founded by Charles Stanley in 1977, has made a $2 million gift to Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to create an endowed chair in Stanley’s name.
2020
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September 15, 2020: CBN: 'I'm Going to Obey God': Charles Stanley Steps Down as Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta
Dr. Charles Stanley is stepping down as senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. The 87-year-old preacher will now become Pastor Emeritus. In a video announcement to the church, Stanley said he initially resisted God's call to pastor First Baptist. He explained that his family was content living in Florida and he had not planned on leaving. |
2020In a video announcement to the church, Stanley said he initially resisted God's call to pastor First Baptist. He explained that his family was content living in Florida and he had not planned on leaving. "But when God asks us to do something uncomfortable, it's usually because He wants to do something remarkable," Stanley declared. "I'm so grateful I said yes then, and I'm so grateful He saw fit to allow me to serve as your pastor for more than 50 years." 4.22.23 |
2019
Oct 7, 2019: Fox5 Atlanta: Dr. Charles Stanley honored for 50 years of ministry
ATLANTA - In October of 1969, Dr. Charles Stanley joined the staff at First Baptist Church of Atlanta. Fifty years later, the church and the city have gone through so many changes, but one thing has remained constant ... Dr. Stanley.
ATLANTA - In October of 1969, Dr. Charles Stanley joined the staff at First Baptist Church of Atlanta. Fifty years later, the church and the city have gone through so many changes, but one thing has remained constant ... Dr. Stanley.
2017
Sept 14, 2017: Atlanta Journal Constitution: Dr. Charles F. Stanley leads life of unwavering faith
Charles Stanley’s autobiography is undoubtedly the most selfless memoir I’ve ever read. From beginning to end, as he recounts each story, each trial and victory, he points the reader to the author and sustainer of his faith – Jesus Christ. One cannot turn the last page of the book without realizing that, in his darkest hours, when enemies came against him and fear would threaten to steal his peace, Charles Stanley’s response was always the same: He fought each battle on his knees, surrendering each trial to God, and trusting his maker with the outcome.
Charles Stanley’s autobiography is undoubtedly the most selfless memoir I’ve ever read. From beginning to end, as he recounts each story, each trial and victory, he points the reader to the author and sustainer of his faith – Jesus Christ. One cannot turn the last page of the book without realizing that, in his darkest hours, when enemies came against him and fear would threaten to steal his peace, Charles Stanley’s response was always the same: He fought each battle on his knees, surrendering each trial to God, and trusting his maker with the outcome.
2016
Sept 28, 2016: Christianity Today: When Charles Stanley’s Marriage Ended, Prayer Was His Lifeline
At 84, Charles Stanley still prays on his knees every day and preaches every week at First Baptist Church Atlanta, where he’s served as senior pastor since 1971.
At 84, Charles Stanley still prays on his knees every day and preaches every week at First Baptist Church Atlanta, where he’s served as senior pastor since 1971.
2015
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Apr 23, 2015: Charisma: Charles Stanley Won't Accept Award Because Jews Accuse Him of Homophobia
Amid a heated debate over his vocal opposition to homosexuality and same-sex marriage, Atlanta pastor Charles Stanley will decline an award he planned to accept from the Jewish National Fund in Atlanta on Thursday (April 23). |
Amid a heated debate over his vocal opposition to homosexuality and same-sex marriage, Atlanta pastor Charles Stanley will decline an award he planned to accept from the Jewish National Fund in Atlanta on Thursday (April 23). News that the longtime pastor of First Baptist Atlanta and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention would be honored by the JNF angered many Jews who pointed to his history of vitriolic anti-gay comments. Stanley said the award was causing too much strife within the Jewish community, and for the sake of his love for Israel, he would not accept it, according to the JNF, a nonprofit that sponsors environmental and educational programs in the Jewish state. 4.23.15 |
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Apr 8, 2015: Huffington Post: Jewish National Fund Award To Anti-Gay Pastor, Charles Stanley, Angers Some Jews
Decrying Atlanta pastor Charles Stanley’s “sordid history of virulent homophobic statements and actions,” a gay Jewish group is protesting the Jewish National Fund for plans to bestow a high honor on Stanley, senior pastor of First Baptist Atlanta and a former president of the Southern Baptist Convention. |
“He has said that ‘God does not agree with the lifestyle of the homosexual’ and that accepting gay people is ‘an act of disobedience to God,’” the letter continues. The controversy reflects the sometimes awkward embrace between American Jews and evangelicals — fervent partners in support of Israel but also outspoken opponents on many domestic social issues, including homosexuality and abortion rights. Though not known as a culture warrior in the mold of the late Jerry Falwell or televangelist Pat Robertson, Stanley, 82, nonetheless recently joined an amicus brief at the Supreme Court that warned that nationwide legalized gay marriage would result in government actions to “silence religious dissenters who continue to hold to their millennia-old definition of marriage.” 4.18.15 |
2014
Charles Stanley
Jesus said, “[Satan] comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Unfortunately, many Christians live only an adequate spiritual life, rather than an abundant one. Though they go through the motions of being “good Christians,” they do not enjoy the power, peace, and joy that God intends believers to experience. To them, Christianity feels more like a burden than a source of delight and comfort, and habitual sins hold them in bondage.
-Charles Stanley 7.27.14
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Sept 25, 2014: Christian Post: Happy Birthday, Dr. Stanley: Why I'm Thankful For My Pastor
Charles Stanley has often been called "America's Pastor," and I'm grateful that I get to call him my pastor. On his 82nd birthday, I share some reasons why |
If ever I start to get overly skeptical about humanity, I just need to show up to a Dr. Stanley book signing and watch as long lines of people tell him their stories of how his messages have impacted their lives and helped transform their relationships with the Lord. As I stood back and observed loyal listeners and readers light up when it was their turn to shake his hand, I teared up and thanked God that I had been given the immense privilege of sitting under his preaching and teaching for my entire life. "Thanks for letting me be part of the fan club," I whispered to Phillip Bowen, the CEO of In Touch Ministries, Stanley's broadcast organization. "You're part of the family," Bowen responded. In that moment I was reminded of how First Baptist Atlanta has been more than just my church for the past 30 years. It is indeed my family. And Dr. Stanley has been more than just the pastor. He has been my pastor. Today, as he turns 82 years old, Dr. Stanley remains like a grandfather in the faith to me and countless others who have been personally shaped by his ministry over the years. 9.25.14 |
Jesus said, “[Satan] comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Unfortunately, many Christians live only an adequate spiritual life, rather than an abundant one. Though they go through the motions of being “good Christians,” they do not enjoy the power, peace, and joy that God intends believers to experience. To them, Christianity feels more like a burden than a source of delight and comfort, and habitual sins hold them in bondage.
-Charles Stanley 7.27.14
-Charles Stanley 7.27.14
"The enemy doesn't bring up tomorrow. Because he wants us to forfeit our future, he invites us to demand instant fulfillment of our desires. But there's nothing you or I "must have" now that's worth stepping out of God's will or losing the privileges and opportunities He has prepared for us. The Lord has a plan for our lives, and there is absolutely nothing that can compare with His will, His purpose, and His goals."
--Charles Stanley 05.13.14
--Charles Stanley 05.13.14
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Mar 22, 2014: Covenant Nurture: The Inconsistent Synergism of ‘Eternal Security’ – Michael Horton
Today, many within the American Church speak of ’Eternal Security’. Charles Stanley is one key example that teaches this doctrine. |
Today, many within the American Church speak of ‘Eternal Security’. Charles Stanley is one key example that teaches this doctrine. In this system, Charles Stanley actually is Arminian in the other four points of Calvinism and because a person “makes a decision for Jesus”, well Jesus is just kind of stuck with them, regardless of the lack of fruit or evidence of true faith in Christ. This doctrine of ‘Eternal Security’ is inconsistent with the Reformed Protestant view known as ‘Perseverance of the Saints’ (or the ‘P’ in TULIP). In the Reformed understanding of the five points of Calvinism, salvation is all of grace from beginning to end. Michael Horton in his recent book, For Calvinism very thoughtfully engages the ‘inconsistent synergism’ of the doctrine of ‘Eternal Security’ commonly taught by Charles Stanley among many others. Sadly, Reformed folk get a bad wrap for holding to ‘Eternal Security’ even though it is a view inconsistent with our system of doctrine and Reformed Confessional standards. ‘Perseverance of the Saints’ is an altogether different doctrine than what has become known as ‘Eternal Security’ or ‘Once Saved, Always Saved’. Reformed Protestants are not ‘Antinomians’ as the Assemblies of God would have us to believe as they lump Charles Stanley in within the pale of Calvinism and leave Reformed Protestants impaled. Just take a look at our Reformed Confessions such as the Heidelberg Catechism or the Westminster Standards. |
pre-2014
July 25, 2013: From The Lighthouse: Sad News About Charles Stanley’s In Touch Magazine
Lighthouse Trails has watched in dismay over the past few years as Charles Stanley’s In Touch magazine has made the decision to promote contemplative/emergent names.
Lighthouse Trails has watched in dismay over the past few years as Charles Stanley’s In Touch magazine has made the decision to promote contemplative/emergent names.
Nov 19, 2012: CNN: Two preaching giants and the 'betrayal' that tore them apart
At 54, Andy knows something about weirdness. He was swept up in a struggle against another famous televangelist -- his father, the Rev. Charles Stanley, a Southern Baptist megachurch pastor and founder of In Touch Ministries, a global evangelistic organization. The experience enraged Andy so much it scared him:
At 54, Andy knows something about weirdness. He was swept up in a struggle against another famous televangelist -- his father, the Rev. Charles Stanley, a Southern Baptist megachurch pastor and founder of In Touch Ministries, a global evangelistic organization. The experience enraged Andy so much it scared him:
Charles Frazier Stanley (born 1932) is Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, after serving as senior pastor for 49 years. Stanley was born in Dry Fork, Virginia, just nine months before his father died. Stanley grew up in rural Dry Fork in the outskirts of Danville. At the age of 12, Charles became a born-again Christian, and at age 14, began his life's work in Christian ministry. Stanley received his bachelor's degree from the University of Richmond. He later obtained his Masters of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, in Fort Worth, Texas. Lastly, he received his Masters and Doctorate, both in theology – Th.M. and Th.D., respectively – from Luther Rice Seminary, in Florida (which later relocated to Lithonia, Georgia). Stanley joined the staff of First Baptist Church of Atlanta in 1969 and became senior pastor in 1971. As a young pastor, he was given the motivational book Think and Grow Rich. Stanley writes, "I began to apply the principles of that book to my endeavors as a pastor, and I discovered they worked!" Stanley also wrote, "For years, I read Think and Grow Rich every year to remind myself that the truth of God is not just for one career field. It is for all manner of work and ministry." In 1972, Stanley launched a half-hour religious television program called The Chapel Hour. The Christian Broadcasting Network began televising this show in 1978. In 1982, Stanley founded In Touch Ministries, and its radio broadcasts began to be syndicated. During the 1980s, the ministry's broadcasts were available in nearly every major American media market, usually on Sundays. In 2006, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley could be heard in 107 languages. Currently, it airs in more than 50 languages worldwide. In the United States, "In Touch" is broadcast on approximately 500 radio stations, 300 television stations and several satellite networks including The Inspiration Network (INSP) and Trinity Broadcasting Network. Stanley's sermons are also available on the In Touch Web site and are downloadable in the form of podcasts, along with other video and audio programming. In Touch also produces a free monthly magazine called the In Touch magazine.
Stanley's writings and broadcasts address issues such as finances, parenting, personal crises, emotional matters, relationships and Protestant Christianity. According to the ministry Web site, "Dr. Stanley fervently believes the Bible to be the inerrant Word of God, a belief strongly reflected in his teaching." In 2005, Stanley invited Lisa Ryan to co-host a question-and-answer segment called "Bring It Home," which aired after the sermon and advertisements. The Q&A segment was intended to help the audience better grasp the content of the sermon through the use of questions the average listener might ask. The segment was discontinued in late 2006 and replaced by Stanley alone. In early 2007, Stanley began using the final segment of the "In Touch" TV and radio programs to teach on his "30 Life Principles." Related materials and teaching are available online through InTouch.org's "Life Principles Center."
In addition to his work in Christian ministry, Stanley is an avid photographer. Much of his photographic work is featured in the In Touch magazine, as well as in other materials printed by the ministry (such as the In Touch wall and desk calendars)
Stanley's writings and broadcasts address issues such as finances, parenting, personal crises, emotional matters, relationships and Protestant Christianity. According to the ministry Web site, "Dr. Stanley fervently believes the Bible to be the inerrant Word of God, a belief strongly reflected in his teaching." In 2005, Stanley invited Lisa Ryan to co-host a question-and-answer segment called "Bring It Home," which aired after the sermon and advertisements. The Q&A segment was intended to help the audience better grasp the content of the sermon through the use of questions the average listener might ask. The segment was discontinued in late 2006 and replaced by Stanley alone. In early 2007, Stanley began using the final segment of the "In Touch" TV and radio programs to teach on his "30 Life Principles." Related materials and teaching are available online through InTouch.org's "Life Principles Center."
In addition to his work in Christian ministry, Stanley is an avid photographer. Much of his photographic work is featured in the In Touch magazine, as well as in other materials printed by the ministry (such as the In Touch wall and desk calendars)