Dr Charles Stanley, the founder of In Touch Ministries and the senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta for 49 years, died on April 18, 2023, at the age of 90. He was a renowned televangelist, author, and leader of the Southern Baptist Convention. His death was mourned by millions of Christians around the world who were inspired by his biblical teachings and his personal testimony of faith. But what was the cause of death of Dr Charles Stanley? How did he spend his last days on earth? And what legacy did he leave behind for the church and the world? In this article, we will explore these questions and pay tribute to the life and ministry of Dr Charles Stanley.
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The Cause of Death of Dr Charles Stanley: A Peaceful Departure
According to In Touch Ministries, the cause of death of Dr Charles Stanley was natural causes. He passed away peacefully in his home in Atlanta, Georgia, surrounded by his family and close friends. He had been in good health until a few weeks before his death, when he started to experience some fatigue and weakness. He was diagnosed with a terminal illness, which he accepted with grace and trust in God’s sovereignty. He did not reveal the nature of his illness to the public, but he asked for prayers and support from his ministry partners and church members. He also expressed his gratitude for the privilege of serving God and his people for more than seven decades.
Dr Charles Stanley was not afraid of death, because he knew that he had eternal life in Christ. He often preached about the hope of heaven and the resurrection, and he encouraged his listeners to live with an eternal perspective. He once said, “Death is not the end of the road; it is only a bend in the road. The road winds only through those paths through which Christ Himself has gone. This Travel Agent does not expect us to discover the trail for ourselves. Often we say that Christ will meet us on the other side. That is true, of course, but misleading. Let us never forget that He walks with us on this side of the curtain and then guides us through the opening. We will meet Him there, because we have met Him here.”
The Last Days of Dr Charles Stanley: A Faithful Steward
Dr Charles Stanley was a faithful steward of the gifts and opportunities that God had given him. He did not retire from his ministry, but he transitioned to an emeritus status in 2020, handing over the leadership of First Baptist Church Atlanta to his successor, Dr Anthony George. He continued to preach and write, and he remained the president of In Touch Ministries until his death. He also spent more time with his family, especially his two children, Becky and Andy, and his seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was proud of his son Andy, who followed his footsteps as a pastor and founded North Point Ministries, one of the largest churches in America.
Dr Charles Stanley was also a generous giver, who supported various causes and missions around the world. He donated millions of dollars to various Christian organizations, such as the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, the International Mission Board, the Samaritan’s Purse, and the Salvation Army. He also funded scholarships and grants for students and pastors who wanted to pursue theological education. He was passionate about spreading the gospel to every nation and every person, and he used his media platform to reach millions of people with the message of God’s love and grace.
Dr Charles Stanley was also a humble learner, who never stopped growing in his knowledge and understanding of God’s word. He was an avid reader, who studied various books and commentaries on the Bible and theology. He also listened to other preachers and teachers, and he sought feedback and advice from his peers and mentors. He was always open to new insights and perspectives, and he was willing to admit his mistakes and correct his errors. He once said, “We can be tired, weary and emotionally distraught, but after spending time alone with God, we find that He injects into our bodies energy, power and strength.”
The Legacy of Dr Charles Stanley: A Spiritual Giant
Dr Charles Stanley left a lasting legacy for the church and the world. He was a spiritual giant, who influenced countless lives with his preaching and writing. He authored more than 70 books, including best-sellers such as The Gift of Forgiveness, How to Listen to God, and The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible. He also produced hundreds of sermons, articles, podcasts, and videos, which are available on the In Touch website and app. He touched many hearts with his personal stories, his practical wisdom, and his biblical principles. He was known for his clear and simple presentation of the gospel, and his emphasis on the power of prayer, the sovereignty of God, and the obedience of faith.
Dr Charles Stanley also left a lasting legacy for his family and friends. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who cherished his time with his loved ones. He was a loyal friend, who supported and encouraged his fellow ministers and colleagues. He was a kind and compassionate person, who cared for the needs and concerns of his church members and ministry partners. He was a man of integrity, who lived what he preached and practiced what he taught. He was a man of God, who loved the Lord with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Dr Charles Stanley will be greatly missed by many, but his memory will live on in the lives of those he touched and the work he accomplished. He finished his race well, and he received his crown of glory. He is now in the presence of his Savior, whom he served faithfully and joyfully. He can now say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
