The Christian community is mourning the loss of one of its most influential leaders, Pastor Dr. Charles Stanley, who passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at his home in Atlanta. He was 90 years old.
Dr. Stanley was the founder and president of In Touch Ministries, a global media ministry that reaches millions of people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was also the senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta for more than 50 years, until he retired in September 2020.
Dr. Stanley was known for his biblical teaching, his practical wisdom, and his personal integrity. He authored more than 60 books, including bestsellers such as The Gift of Forgiveness, How to Listen to God, and The Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Bible.
He also had a popular television and radio program, In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, which aired on hundreds of stations and networks around the world. He received numerous awards and honors for his ministry, including the prestigious NRB Hall of Fame Award in 1988.
What was the cause of death?
The official cause of death has not been announced by his family or his ministry. However, according to some reports, he died of natural causes or old age. He had no public record of any long-term illness, and he was active and healthy until his last days.
His son, Andy Stanley, who is also a pastor and the founder of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia, revealed that his father’s last words to him were “I couldn’t be prouder of you Andy”. He said that his father asked him to pray for him on every visit, and that he did so on his knees beside his father’s leather chair.
He also said that his father knew that he was going to heaven soon, and that he was ready to meet his Savior. He said that he will miss him every day until he sees him again.
How did the world react?
The news of Dr. Stanley’s death was met with an outpouring of grief and gratitude from his followers, friends, and fellow ministers. Many people took to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of how Dr. Stanley impacted their lives.
Some of the prominent figures who paid tribute to Dr. Stanley include:
- Franklin Graham, president and CEO of Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: “Dr. Charles Stanley was a giant in the faith—a great man of God who loved the Lord Jesus Christ with all his heart. He was one of my father’s closest friends and someone I respected greatly.”
- Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Church Dallas: “Dr. Charles Stanley was one of the most influential Christian leaders in history. His clear exposition of God’s Word and his personal example of godliness impacted millions for Christ.”
- Greg Laurie, pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship and evangelist: “Dr. Charles Stanley was a spiritual giant and a personal hero to me. I loved his preaching, his books, and his godly life. He finished well and is now in the presence of His Lord.”
- David Jeremiah, pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church and founder of Turning Point Ministries: “Dr. Charles Stanley was a faithful servant of God who preached the Word with power and conviction. He was a mentor to me and many others who looked up to him as a model of integrity and grace.”
What is his legacy?
Dr. Stanley leaves behind a lasting legacy of faithfulness, humility, and generosity. He touched countless lives with his ministry, which will continue to spread the gospel through various media platforms.
He also leaves behind a loving family, including his daughter Becky, his son Andy, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered as a man who loved God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength, and who loved his neighbor as himself.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and learned from him.
May he rest in peace and joy in the arms of his Savior.