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The Reason for My Hope: Salvation
The saving message of the Gospel is the heartbeat of this preacher and evangelist. Millions around the world heard Billy Graham proclaim this unchanging truth. He never forgot the transformation of his own life, when he first said yes to God’s gift of salvation, and he witnessed multitudes turn their hearts to the God of Hope.
What is the most hopeful word in History? For Billy Graham, that word is SALVATION.
Billy Graham proclaimed God's Gospel with resolve and deep compassion. It is a message he preached for more than seventy years. And in this book you will sense its urgency, filled with hope for the future.
Salvation is what we all long for, when we are lost or in danger or have made a mess of our lives. And salvation belongs to us, when we reach out for the only One who can rescue us—Jesus.
The Reason for My Salvation presents the essence of that transformative message. It is biblical and timeless, and though simple and direct, it is far from easy. There are hard words, prophetic words, directed toward a culture that denies the reality of sin and distracts us from the veracity of Hell. But through its ominous warnings shines a light that cannot be extinguished—a beacon of hope that Jesus came “to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).
What is the most hopeful word in History? For Billy Graham, that word is SALVATION.
Billy Graham proclaimed God's Gospel with resolve and deep compassion. It is a message he preached for more than seventy years. And in this book you will sense its urgency, filled with hope for the future.
Salvation is what we all long for, when we are lost or in danger or have made a mess of our lives. And salvation belongs to us, when we reach out for the only One who can rescue us—Jesus.
The Reason for My Salvation presents the essence of that transformative message. It is biblical and timeless, and though simple and direct, it is far from easy. There are hard words, prophetic words, directed toward a culture that denies the reality of sin and distracts us from the veracity of Hell. But through its ominous warnings shines a light that cannot be extinguished—a beacon of hope that Jesus came “to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).
212 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
About the author
Billy Graham
683 books616 followersBilly Graham was an American evangelical Christian evangelist and an ordained Southern Baptist minister. Graham is best known for his evangelistic missions or “Crusades.” He believed God knew no borders or nationalities. Throughout his career, Graham preached to millions around the world. He met and prayed with every U. S. president from Dwight Eisenhower to Barack Obama.
Graham authored 34 books, including his memoir, Just As I Am. In 1983, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ronald Reagan. In 1996, Graham and his wife, Ruth, received the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award Congress can bestow on a private citizen.
Graham married Wheaton College classmate Ruth Bell Graham in 1943. They had five children ( Ruth Graham, Gigi Graham Tchividjian, Anne Graham Lotz, Nelson, & Franklin Graham) and made their home in the mountains of North Carolina. They were married for 64 years before Ruth’s death in 2007. Graham died from natural causes on February 21, 2018, at his home in Montreat, North Carolina, at the age of 99.
Graham authored 34 books, including his memoir, Just As I Am. In 1983, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ronald Reagan. In 1996, Graham and his wife, Ruth, received the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award Congress can bestow on a private citizen.
Graham married Wheaton College classmate Ruth Bell Graham in 1943. They had five children ( Ruth Graham, Gigi Graham Tchividjian, Anne Graham Lotz, Nelson, & Franklin Graham) and made their home in the mountains of North Carolina. They were married for 64 years before Ruth’s death in 2007. Graham died from natural causes on February 21, 2018, at his home in Montreat, North Carolina, at the age of 99.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
January 6, 2020
This was my first time reading a book by Billy Graham. Though I praise and applaud his accolades while he was alive, knowing that Graham serves as such a legend in the Christian community…I will admit I never watched any of his sermons or read any of his books. So I was excited and eager to jump into the book “Salvation.” This nonfiction book about salvation is truly an 8-part sermon series, covering everything from sin, Hell, the cross and the victory! I have been a Christian nearly my entire life, and I loved that there were still some aspects of the salvation theory that Graham opened my eyes to. My favorite chapter was “The Price of Victory” where Graham explains the seven messages of Jesus while he was being crucified…bringing reconciliation, comfort and assurance…with what he did and said on the cross. I thought the chapter on Hell was very interesting, and I’m happy I didn’t have any nightmares after reading through the pages in that chapter! All in all, this book is what I expected from Billy Graham. The message was prompt and to the point. Graham didn’t sugar-coat anything; he was straight forward and honest. He gave a lot of references and shared many stories throughout the chapters. If you want a unabridged explanation of Jesus’ power and the importance of Calvary, then you should read this book! Any questions about your faith or Salvation?…you should read this book! Thank you Billy Graham for reaching and ministering to people even now…long after you are gone!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2013
It's almost exactly two years ago that Nearing Home by Billy Graham (Thomas Nelson, October, 2011) was released. Having read the book, I was led to believe that Rev. Billy Graham wouldn't live long enough to write another book. But though age and illness have removed him from the public eye, here it is: another inspiring book from one of the greatest preachers of all time.
The Reason for My Hope: Salvation by Billy Graham (Thomas Nelson, October 2013), the world-renowned author, preacher, and evangelist, who has delivered the gospel message to more people face-to-face than anyone in history and has ministered on every continent of the world, is a clarion call to set our priorities right, and set our minds on the life hereafter. With heartwarming and touching anecdotes and stories that reflect the core message that has guided his life and calling, the book essentially is a recap of what he has been preaching for well over half-a-century. The Reason for My Hope: Salvation is an invitation to rediscover the faith that saves.
This book of 224-odd pages contains eight well thought-out chapters:
1. Rescued for Something
2. The Great Redemption
3. Sin Is In
4. The Price of Victory
5. Where is Jesus?
6. Defining Christianity in a Designer World
7. No Hope of Happy Hour in Hell
8. He Is Coming Back
Wherever you are in life, The Reason for My Hope: Salvation will truly bless you if you'd take the time to read its message. It is a book, it is a sermon, and it is, perhaps, a farewell message. Whatever the case may be, the message of the book will continue to teach and preach long after Billy Graham is gone. It will inspire and motivate Christians to hold on tightly to that great gift of salvation, for without salvation we are nothing!
The Reason for My Hope: Salvation by Billy Graham (Thomas Nelson, October 2013), the world-renowned author, preacher, and evangelist, who has delivered the gospel message to more people face-to-face than anyone in history and has ministered on every continent of the world, is a clarion call to set our priorities right, and set our minds on the life hereafter. With heartwarming and touching anecdotes and stories that reflect the core message that has guided his life and calling, the book essentially is a recap of what he has been preaching for well over half-a-century. The Reason for My Hope: Salvation is an invitation to rediscover the faith that saves.
This book of 224-odd pages contains eight well thought-out chapters:
1. Rescued for Something
2. The Great Redemption
3. Sin Is In
4. The Price of Victory
5. Where is Jesus?
6. Defining Christianity in a Designer World
7. No Hope of Happy Hour in Hell
8. He Is Coming Back
Wherever you are in life, The Reason for My Hope: Salvation will truly bless you if you'd take the time to read its message. It is a book, it is a sermon, and it is, perhaps, a farewell message. Whatever the case may be, the message of the book will continue to teach and preach long after Billy Graham is gone. It will inspire and motivate Christians to hold on tightly to that great gift of salvation, for without salvation we are nothing!
October 18, 2013
Reading this book I recalled watching Bill Graham's multi-evening events presented on prime time television in the late 50s. (When there were only three networks. "Inconceivable" today.) In one slim volume Graham presents to the best of his ability the message of his lifetime.
This may be Graham's last book expounding the message he has brought the world for the last seventy years. The message hasn't changed, the approach hasn't changed, but the world has changed. Graham is still reaching out on God's behalf to the millions who have not heard the real invitation to hope. He also addresses the millions who have heard but not understood that salvation is more than having their names on a church roll; it's a life-changing process.
Considering his age and condition, he probably dictated these passages. I could hear the cadence of his phrases (and if I "listened" closely, his Carolina drawl) in the sentences here.
Some may baulk at the price of the hardcover volume, but new copies are available for half the twenty dollars indicated. Christians will probably want a hard-bound copy because they will want to read it again and again when Billy Graham is no longer with us.
A great read.
This may be Graham's last book expounding the message he has brought the world for the last seventy years. The message hasn't changed, the approach hasn't changed, but the world has changed. Graham is still reaching out on God's behalf to the millions who have not heard the real invitation to hope. He also addresses the millions who have heard but not understood that salvation is more than having their names on a church roll; it's a life-changing process.
Considering his age and condition, he probably dictated these passages. I could hear the cadence of his phrases (and if I "listened" closely, his Carolina drawl) in the sentences here.
Some may baulk at the price of the hardcover volume, but new copies are available for half the twenty dollars indicated. Christians will probably want a hard-bound copy because they will want to read it again and again when Billy Graham is no longer with us.
A great read.
November 9, 2013
Billy Graham just has a way of explaining God, Jesus, and biblical passages, that I just gravitate to any book he writes. In this book, he connects events of today with Hope for when Christ returns.
December 11, 2016
A wonderful book about why Christians should have hope in a world filled with evil. A great explanation about salvation and God's promises to those who choose to follow his teachings.
October 7, 2019
Billy gives his insight into how we are hoping on the wrong things and that true hope is God alone. He makes a lot of very relevant points especially considering the society we have today. Definitely a book I would recommend.
December 29, 2013
This book has a very clear presentation of the gospel, which is needed today. Every Christian should read this book to learn how to share your faith.
May 1, 2022
Everyone knows Graham. I enjoyed this book much more than I initial thought I would. At first, I was looking for a book more about hope in the present physical life, so I got a bit disappointed as I started reading, but I'm glad I kept reading. This book became much more, hope in salvation and the eternal spiritual life.
He starts by explicitly stating that this book was written to try to reach a more modern and young crowd and why we all need Jesus. The chapters seemed to flow very well. He discussed Jesus and how his sacrifice saved us, using world examples of sacrifice to demonstrate how much more Jesus did for us. He goes into sin and that sin is not cool/trendy, but something that brings us to death. He talks about an interesting and concerning topic of designer faith, how many people are creating their own Christian, or any religion, faith. He ends by discussing Jesus' second coming. I'm glad he included many Bible verses to support his ideas.
This book gave me insights to think about my own beliefs, to hopefully, live a better life. It was certainly a great reminder of where hope can be found and the role Jesus should play in Christian lives.
Great read for new believers or old. His discussions on Christianity on a high level can apply to all Christians. Differing beliefs for different Christian denominations are not really touched in this book.
He starts by explicitly stating that this book was written to try to reach a more modern and young crowd and why we all need Jesus. The chapters seemed to flow very well. He discussed Jesus and how his sacrifice saved us, using world examples of sacrifice to demonstrate how much more Jesus did for us. He goes into sin and that sin is not cool/trendy, but something that brings us to death. He talks about an interesting and concerning topic of designer faith, how many people are creating their own Christian, or any religion, faith. He ends by discussing Jesus' second coming. I'm glad he included many Bible verses to support his ideas.
This book gave me insights to think about my own beliefs, to hopefully, live a better life. It was certainly a great reminder of where hope can be found and the role Jesus should play in Christian lives.
Great read for new believers or old. His discussions on Christianity on a high level can apply to all Christians. Differing beliefs for different Christian denominations are not really touched in this book.
February 10, 2020
This book was a birthday present from Sterl Paramore. It is particularly appropriate as a gift from him since he has been The Cove, Billy Graham’s retreat for pastors, more than once. He is also the most consistently evangelistic person I know. It makes sense that he would give me a book where Graham essentially gives an evangelistic appeal. The book is about salvation, the message that Graham preached throughout his long and fruitful ministry. In one sense this book is much like the earlier books from his pen, World Aflame and Peace With God. The point is the same, humanity is lost in sin and God has supplied a Savior in His Son, Jesus Christ. He even concludes with the sinner’s prayer and a request to write to him to tell of the reader’s decision.
It was good to read this book. First, because I believe in its message, but more importantly it just does one good to be reminded of the essential elements of the gospel. Beyond that Graham has always been one to find just the right illustration to make his point. The stories alone are worth the price of the book. I will certainly be recommending this book to anyone who would be inspired by its core message. I anticipate giving copies of it to folks who are yet to be introduced to Jesus.
It was good to read this book. First, because I believe in its message, but more importantly it just does one good to be reminded of the essential elements of the gospel. Beyond that Graham has always been one to find just the right illustration to make his point. The stories alone are worth the price of the book. I will certainly be recommending this book to anyone who would be inspired by its core message. I anticipate giving copies of it to folks who are yet to be introduced to Jesus.
October 17, 2020
My dad was named after Billy Graham, and so reading books by him feel familiar. This book is very much written like a sermon, and because of this, I found that the first half was a little repetitive. In saying that, some might not see it that way, and I think the writing style is perfect for people just beginning their walk in faith.
The second half I found was really good, with certain insights that felt very helpful. Something that stuck with me was, 'You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end - which you can never afford to lose - with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality'.
I absolutely loved that (given the name of the book being, 'The reason for my hope'), it ended with, 'This is my hope'. It gave a lovely rounded end to a book full of the ins and outs of salvation, including parts that modern preachers choose to ignore.
I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting to truly know the meaning of salvation, but perhaps to read a little at a time and do your own reading alongside as you go to get a deeper understanding.
The second half I found was really good, with certain insights that felt very helpful. Something that stuck with me was, 'You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end - which you can never afford to lose - with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality'.
I absolutely loved that (given the name of the book being, 'The reason for my hope'), it ended with, 'This is my hope'. It gave a lovely rounded end to a book full of the ins and outs of salvation, including parts that modern preachers choose to ignore.
I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting to truly know the meaning of salvation, but perhaps to read a little at a time and do your own reading alongside as you go to get a deeper understanding.
January 12, 2021
Throughout this book I could hear the voice of its author, with his strength and a southern accent, laying out the truth of the gospel clearly. This stands as a “last sermon” for the great evangelist, to preach to the hearts of those seeking hope and peace in this world. It was written in 2013, but all examples are still relevant and feel even more accelerated during our current times. There were moments where I teared up and moments when I pumped my fist and said, “Glory!” like my beloved mother-in-law did while she lived. There is hope in this world and for this world and it is found in the Christ preached in the Bible and in this book.
April 18, 2022
Great book on salvation, obvious he had the gift of evangelism. I think the book is more appropriate for new believers or people struggling with their faith. Talked about how the world is hopeless and Jesus is our hope. Chapter on hell stuck out to me, it talked about how it’s often minimized and joked about in entertainment. Satan is sneaky, uses flattery to bait you into going to hell but Jesus is upfront by telling us to come to Him. He doesn’t have anything to hide. Watching movies about hell opens up the door for the enemy but reading scripture about it allows the Spirit to speak to you
July 26, 2020
This was the first book I have read by Billy Graham. I did attend a couple of his events. He was such a humble man who followed Gods call and has shared the message with many. I would describe this book as many “four letter words” —— love, hope, help, life, true, care! It is also fear, pain, Hell. But iAMEN — we have a future HOME because of what Jesus has DONE!! I felt the most powerful chapter was “No Hope of Happy Hour in Hell“. I will definitely share this book.
August 21, 2022
Billy Graham’s second to last book is a powerful one that summarizes the message his 70+ years of evangelistic ministry. Reminded me all over again how fleeting everything of this life truly is - Jesus has come, He will come again, and so few have chosen to truly repent and follow Him. It’s hopeful to those who accept His message and sacrifice, yet heartbreaking to see those those who trust their own goodness and self sufficiency.
January 1, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. If you're questioning your salvation, this book is for you. If the thought of the cross and salvation brings you more questions, then this book is for you! Every book by Billy Graham brings the life-saving message of the Cross and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This book is no different. Every page is filled with the love of Christ and His love for us. This is one book I will certainly hold on to! It is truly an eye-opener and a heart check!
January 28, 2018
If you’re looking for story variation-you can forget it when it comes to Billy Graham. He tells of Christ Jesus every single time and why He’s the only hope for our hurting world. What a message that need to be shared! Beautiful book and wonderful reminder why we, as followers of Jesus, always have hope for a better tomorrow.
March 7, 2018
Reverand Graham once again straight-forwardly tells the Gospel truth to all readers. Salvation is the only way we have to an eternal life with God. His illustrations and stories to help tell this message are easy to read and leave no doubt in the reader's mind that Jesus is The Way, The Truth, and The Life.
March 11, 2023
Absolutely fantastic!! Billy Graham does such a wonderful job simplifying the gospel throughout every page. I think this would be a perfect book for a new believer, as it gives a great foundation of what it means to be a Christian. Yet it is also a beautiful reminder for a seasoned believer as well. I loved it so much!!
August 15, 2018
I have just read this compelling book; Billy Graham tells of how he had finally found his hope in Jesus Christ, along with an invitation to those who are trying to look for hope in other things, but there is only one hope that satisfies, and that can only be found in the cross of Jesus Christ.-JW
November 13, 2018
The Reason for My Hope:Salvation
This is a wonderful book. Jesus is my Savior. This book is for those who love God and his son Jesus and also those seeking God. I recommend this book to all of my friends.
This is a wonderful book. Jesus is my Savior. This book is for those who love God and his son Jesus and also those seeking God. I recommend this book to all of my friends.
May 31, 2019
Clear and convincing presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Graham writes with compelling conviction and puts modern day context to this ancient message. A great book for anyone, even believers for the reminder of the hope that is in them.
March 22, 2020
I definitely felt Graham’s heart come through this book but still felt underwhelmed. His presence and legacy are undeniable, this book however didn’t feel as helpful or impactful. I’ll definitely check out some of his other books in order to get a better grasp of Graham’s ministry.
October 2, 2023
What I expected was a book that I would read a chapter or two and need to do something, because all though interesting, it would be dry. What I got was a book full of insight and wisdom (I expected) and history and all sorts of information. I liked the book and highly recommend it.
March 27, 2018
Good book. It's the first book by Bolly Graham I have read. I have two waiting for me. He tells it like it is.
April 4, 2018
What a fantastic book!
June 24, 2018
A sinner can't save himself. Only in faith can real conversion take place. Billy graham tells it like it is.
January 16, 2019
Great collection of narratives and stories about salvation and hope from the testimony of Kennedy's (JFK) and to ordinary believers - Indeed this book will give you hope.
January 24, 2019
If you are looking for truth in an uncertain world, Billy Graham has published it for you.
November 8, 2019
Great book. Very informative. I learned a lot about myself and God.
August 7, 2020
Surprisingly well reasoned
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews