Pilgrim,

This then begs the question, does he base this belief on Romans 1:20, the "inner witness" concerning those who have never heard the gospel, but have, nonetheless, understood the things of God through the splendor of creation?

Sir, if this is true then he's not preaching a "second chance gospel" for it would specifically not apply to those who have heard the gospel and not responded, but to those who have not heard the gospel as of yet. This doesn't apply anywhere in America, or any place where the gospel is accessible, but people choose not to look into it.

As Saint Paul says:
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"Truly these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent"
Acts 17:30

And this is what the RCC teaches as well for those peoples yet unreached by the gospel of Christ, this isn't a second chance, nor does it imply that God overlooks sinful acts. But rather that God saves those who understand Him, and love Him soley by the witness of creation.

I've heard stories about missionaries that were received with rejoicing by indiginous people who already had believed, but had only to put a name on their faith. Like the man born blind and healed, they seemed to be asking, "Who is He (the Son of God), that I may believe in Him?" (John 9:36)

But I cannot believe that Moslums can be included in this phenomenon, for Islam specifically incorporates the teachings of Christ in their religion, but refuse to accept Him as God's Son. There is no ignorance here, just a refusal to believe.

You said:
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"Additionally he has at least intimated that Moslums, etc., and even some pagans can be saved without Christ in this life."

One thing is for sure, that the only channel of God's mercy is the cross, and even if there can be those saved post mortem, these must come to terms with the cross. So no one can be saved without Christ. Did he really say this, sir?

But as far as Billy Graham's concerned, arminianistic beliefs are typical among those who are exclusively evangelists, for they focus on such verses as John 3:16 and Revelation 3:20, and typically don't delve too deeply in the theology of free-will. As I stated, that's not Graham's strength. But he has devoted his life to preaching the gospel and among his accolades are many thousands have responded to alter calls even if (by "four soils" mathematics) only a quarter of those actually develope a genuine faith in Christ.

Billy Graham is an accomplished Christian evangelist, though certainly with his weaknesses; but be sure you aren't so focused on the hole that you miss the doughnut. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" />

By the Sacred Heart of Christ and the Immaculate Heart of Mary

catholicsoldier <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/takethat.gif" alt="" />