‘A most interesting life’: 4 Christian leaders react to the death of Jim Bakker

`1. Franklin Graham

The Rev. Franklin Graham, head of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, posted a statement on X, saying he was “saddened” by Bakker's death.

“Jim was responsible for giving Samaritan’s Purse our first major television exposure, and I will be forever grateful for his support and help,” Graham posted. “Jim enjoyed helping other people. He showcased many ministries on his program and introduced numerous preachers of the Gospel to a much broader audience.”

Graham recalled seeing Bakker for the last time a few days before his father's funeral, with Bakker offering his “personal condolences.”

“I asked him if he would be at the funeral, and he said, ‘Am I invited?’ I told him that he was absolutely invited and that my father would be disappointed if he wasn’t there,” Graham added. “Jim was a friend, and he will be missed. My prayers are with his family.”