Jim Bakker: The Rise and Fall of the Televangelist King
A Life of Contrasts: From Fame to Felony
Jim Bakker, the American televangelist, is known for hosting the popular television program, The PTL Club, and its satellite network, which reached millions of viewers in the 1970s and 1980s. Alongside his then-wife, Tammy Faye, Bakker built a media empire, amassing a fortune and earning the adoration of millions.
A Humble Beginning
Born on January 2, 1940, in Muskegon, Michigan, James Orsen Bakker grew up in a Christian household. He attended North Central University, a bible college affiliated with the Assemblies of God, where he met his future wife, Tammy Faye LaValley, in 1960. The couple married in 1961 and left college to become itinerant evangelists.
Rise to Fame
In 1966, Bakker began working at
Pat Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN). He later founded the PTL (Praise the Lord) Ministry, which evolved into The PTL Club, a popular television program that aired from 1974 to 1987. The show's success led to the development of Heritage USA, a Christian theme park in Fort Mill, South Carolina, which became a major tourist attraction.
Financial Empire and Philanthropy
At the height of his success, Bakker's PTL Ministry generated an estimated $175 million in annual revenue. He used his wealth to fund various philanthropic projects, including the construction of a hospital, a school, and a retirement community. However, his financial empire was also marred by allegations of accounting fraud and embezzlement.
Scandal and Downfall
In 1987, Bakker resigned from the PTL Ministry following allegations of paying hush money to church secretary Jessica Hahn to cover up an alleged rape. The scandal led to a series of investigations, revealing a complex web of financial fraud and deceit. Bakker was convicted of 24 counts of mail and wire fraud and was sentenced to 45 years in prison.
Redemption and Rebirth
After serving five years in prison, Bakker was released in 1994. He subsequently divorced Tammy Faye and remarried Lori Beth Graham in 1998. Bakker returned to televangelism, founding Morningside Church in Blue Eye, Missouri, and reestablishing the PTL ministry. He currently hosts The Jim Bakker Show, which focuses on the end times and promotes emergency survival products.
Legacy and Impact
Jim Bakker's life serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked power and greed. Despite his controversial past, Bakker remains a significant figure in the world of televangelism, with a devoted following and a continued presence on television. His legacy is a complex mix of philanthropy, financial scandal, and personal redemption.
Quotes and Memorable Sayings
- "God doesn't call us to be successful, He calls us to be faithful."
- "I was wrong, and I am sorry."
Personal Milestones and Key Life Events
- Married Tammy Faye LaValley in 1961
- Founded PTL Ministry in 1974
- Developed Heritage USA theme park in 1978
- Resigned from PTL Ministry in 1987
- Convicted of fraud and sentenced to 45 years in prison in 1989
- Released from prison in 1994
- Married Lori Beth Graham in 1998
Books and Writings
- I Was Wrong
- Time Has Come: How to Prepare Now for Epic Events Ahead
Fun Facts and Trivia
- Bakker's PTL Ministry had an estimated 12 million viewers in its prime.
- The Heritage USA theme park was once the third-largest theme park in the United States.
- Bakker's wife, Tammy Faye, was known for her extravagant makeup and fashion sense.
FAQ
What was Jim Bakkers role in the televangelism movement?
Jim Bakker was a prominent televangelist who co-founded the PTL Club, a popular Christian television program, with his wife Tammy Faye Bakker. He was known for his charismatic preaching and fundraising efforts.
What was the scandal that led to Jim Bakkers downfall?
Jim Bakker was embroiled in a sex scandal involving a former church secretary, Jessica Hahn, and was subsequently convicted of fraud and conspiracy related to the misuse of PTL ministry funds.
What was the impact of the scandal on Jim Bakkers ministry?
The scandal led to the downfall of Jim Bakkers ministry and the PTL Club, as well as his imprisonment. It also led to a significant decline in the popularity of televangelism and raised questions about the accountability of religious leaders.
What has Jim Bakker done since his release from prison?
After his release from prison, Jim Bakker has continued to minister and has written several books. He has also started a new ministry, Morningside Church, and has been open about his past mistakes and his efforts to rebuild his life and ministry.
What is Jim Bakkers legacy in American Christianity?
Jim Bakkers legacy is that of a charismatic preacher who rose to fame and fell from grace. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of mixing faith and finance and the importance of accountability in religious leadership.
