Television evangelist Jimmy Swaggert passed away at a hospital Monday after suffering from a cardiac arrest nearly two weeks ago. He was 90 years old.
Life
Swaggart was well-known for his energetic preaching on the radio, then on television. He would preach fiery sermons, persuading listeners to avoid the punishment of hell and turn to God. But he came from small beginnings.
Jimmy Lee Swaggart was born in eastern Louisiana, in the small town of Ferriday, on March 15, 1935. Both parents were evangelicals.
After Jimmy Lee’s baby brother died of pneumonia, the parents fought often. At this time, Swaggart was influenced by his grandmother, who he said had studied the Bible incessantly. He loved going to church because his parents didn’t fight there.
On Oct. 10, 1952, Jimmy Swaggart married Frances Anderson. He was 17 and she was 15. A year later, their son, Donnie, was born. Convinced that God wanted him to preach, Swaggart traveled in a rundown car throughout rural Louisiana and later across the South, holding revival meetings. He would often stay in pastors’ homes and church basements. As his reputation grew, his revivals filled stadiums and arenas. He founded his Family Worship Center in the late 1960s and began his television ministry in 1975. Before long, his message was reaching many millions around the world through television, radio, and the internet. Additionally, he recorded many gospel songs and wrote books on Christianity.
Ministry
One cannot discuss Swaggert without mentioning his ministry. Jimmy Swaggart’s Worldwide Ministries had a television presence in more than 140 countries and, along with its Bible college, took in up to half a million dollars a day from donations and sales of Bible courses, gospel music, and merchandise.
Fall
Although he preached against the grip of sin, his meetings with prostitutes led to his downfall. He was reprimanded by the Assemblies of God denomination and told to seek counsel while forgoing preaching for a year. After three months, he returned to the podium, begging listeners’ and God’s forgiveness. Although some listeners were disillusioned by his life, many more continued to follow his words and turned from lives of sin.
Death
In mid-June, Swaggart suffered a cardiac arrest. He remained at the hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, until his passing on July 1. He has gone to glory to meet his maker.
Remembering Jimmy Swaggart for his lifelong dedication to ministry and the impact he had on many. Wishing comfort and peace to his family, friends, and all who mourn his passing.
Tom Berbas