Christian Leaders Respond to the Death of President Jimmy Carter

President Jimmy Carter died at his home in Plains, Georgia, on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. Shortly after the announcement, President Joe Biden released a statement honoring Carter's legacy, calling him a "man of principle, faith, and humility."  Christian leaders have also respnded offering their tributes.

Greg Laurie:

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.

Left to right, Franklin and Jane Graham, myself, George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush, Cathe Laurie and Jimmy Carter.

Rev. Samuel Rodriguez:

On behalf of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference and the Hispanic evangelical community we serve and represent, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of President Jimmy Carter. Today, we mourn the passing of a man whose life was marked by profound integrity, humility, and empathy.

President Carter's legacy transcends his one term in the White House. While his presidency was notable, it was the life he led afterward that truly cemented his place as one of America's most impactful figures. Through his relentless work with Habitat for Humanity, his dedication to global peace, and his tireless efforts to combat poverty and disease, President Carter demonstrated that the true measure of leadership lies not in titles held but in lives transformed.

Above all, President Carter was a man of deep and abiding faith. His commitment to Jesus Christ was evident not only in his words but in his actions. He did not simply read the Gospel-he lived it. Whether teaching Sunday school well into his later years or advocating for the least of these, President Carter exemplified what it means to lift up Jesus in the public sphere without shame or compromise.

In a world often defined by division and self-interest, President Carter stood as a reminder of the power of faith in action. His life challenges all of us to embrace humility, serve others, and reflect the love of Christ in all that we do.

As we remember his legacy, let us honor his example by striving to live lives of integrity, humility, and empathy. President Carter's light has not dimmed; it continues to shine through the countless lives he touched.

Rest in peace, President Jimmy Carter-a servant of God, a leader of men, and an example for us all.

Franklin Graham:

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. 

Pastors Dr. Jamal Bryant and Dr. Karri Bryant:

President Jimmy Carter leaves an amazing legacy of principled leadership, profound humility and dynamic service to humankind. A former state Senator, Governor of Georgia, as well as President of the United States, perhaps his greatest contributions came as a citizen and all he accomplished in his distinguished post-presidency.

A warrior for civil rights, fair elections and global peace, this life-long Sunday School teacher lived out his Christian faith daily, boldly and consistently.

We pause to celebrate the life and legacy of a good and faithful servant. New Birth is praying for the Carter family as they mourn the profound loss of this good man.

 

 

 

Tags : President Jimmy Carter President Jimmy Carter death Karri Bryant Jamal Bryant samuel rodriguez Greg Laurie Franklin Graham