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7 Christian Leaders React to President Jimmy Carter’s Life and Legacy

  • Michael Foust Crosswalk Headlines Contributor
  • Updated Dec 31, 2024
7 Christian Leaders React to President Jimmy Carter’s Life and Legacy

Christian leaders remembered President Jimmy Carter as a humble man of deep faith and service as they reflected on the legacy of the 39th president of the United States.

Carter passed away Dec. 29 at the age of 100, the oldest president or ex-president in the nation's history. He served as president from 1977 to 1980, winning the White House as a Democrat in the wake of Watergate before losing to Republican Ronald Reagan in 1980.

Here's what seven Christian leaders said of Carter's legacy. 

Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan's Purse and Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

"Former President Jimmy Carter died today at the age of 100 after more than a year in hospice care. He served as our nation's 39th president during a turbulent time in the 70s and 80s when we were facing inflation and, an oil shortage, and a hostage crisis in Iran. He and my father, @BillyGraham, had a close relationship, and we were honored to have him join us for the dedication of the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte in 2007. I know that his family would appreciate your prayers."

Clint Pressley, President, Southern Baptist Convention

"A remarkable man and the first president I remember."

Greg Laurie, Pastor, Harvest Christian Fellowship

"I had the unique privilege of meeting President Carter on three separate occasions, each leaving a lasting impression on me. The first was at a Billy Graham Crusade in Atlanta, Georgia -- a state where Jimmy Carter once served as Governor. Before the crusade began, Billy Graham was showing the President around when they came upon me. Billy introduced me, saying, 'Mr. President, this is Greg Laurie. He is a preacher of the Gospel!' It was a profound honor to be introduced to President Carter in such a meaningful way. The second encounter was on a commercial flight. I vividly remember the former president walking down the aisle, shaking hands with every single passenger, and humbly saying, 'Hello, I'm Jimmy Carter.' That moment was unforgettable. Regardless of how one may have voted, it was an honor for everyone on that flight to shake the hand of a former president.

"The third time I saw him was at the dedication of the Billy Graham Library, where we had our photograph taken together. Once again, President Carter was gracious and approachable, embodying humility and warmth. In many ways, he may have been an even better former president than he was while in office. He dedicated much of his post-presidential life to serving others -- teaching Sunday school at his church, working with Habitat for Humanity, and engaging in various humanitarian efforts.

"We must have respect for the presidency and those who serve in it, even if we do not always agree with their policies. Today, I honor the memory of President Jimmy Carter, a man who exemplified service, humility, and faith throughout his remarkable life."

Ronnie Floyd, Author and Pastor Emeritus, Cross Church, Arkansas

"Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States of America, has died at 100 years of age. He was an outspoken follower of Jesus Christ, a devoted husband and family man, and loved America greatly. Thank God for the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter."

James Merritt, Pastor, Cross Pointe Church, Georgia

"Sad to hear of the passing of the 39th POTUS Jimmy Carter. Politics aside, he was a man of Christian faith, a devoted husband, father, and the man who both loved and served his country both militarily and in public service. Prayers for his family."

Jesse Bradley, Pastor, Grace Community Church, Washington

"There was a renewal in his life in 1967, and he began reading his Bible consistently, becoming an earnest follower of Jesus," Bradley told Fox News.

The former president "lived out his faith as a courageous and inspirational proponent of racial reconciliation. He was also passionate about taking practical action, with a commitment to providing for people in need. Since 1984, President and Mrs. Carter were advocates of affordable housing for everyone through Habitat for Humanity."

"Carter's life reminds us to be intentional with unity. Build authentic friendships, as we genuinely enjoy and appreciate each other … Remember that there is nothing more important than to know Jesus as your Savior and love your neighbor daily."

Walker Wildmon, Vice President of the American Family Association 

"Throughout his life, President Jimmy Carter has exemplified the heart of a servant," he told Fox News. "His contributions in the arena of humanitarian and disaster assistance are abundant."

Wildmon added, "He has also modeled the importance of family throughout his life and career. We pray that God grants President Carter and his family peace during this time."

Photo Credit: ©X/Franklin Graham 

Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel. 

Listen to Michael's Podcast! He is the host of Crosswalk Talk, a podcast where he talks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christian figures keep their faith a priority in Hollywood and discover the best Christian movies, books, television, and other entertainment. You can find Crosswalk Talk on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an interview that will be sure to encourage your faith.