Jimmy Swaggart, the influential Pentecostal preacher and televangelist whose ministry reached millions worldwide, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 90 following a cardiac arrest. His death was announced via a heartfelt post on his official Instagram account.
The Instagram tribute quoted 2 Timothy 4:7-8, stating, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”
The post continued, expressing the profound impact Swaggart had: “Today, our hearts are heavy as we share that Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Saviour, Jesus Christ. Today was the day he has sung about for decades. He met his beloved Saviour and entered the portals of glory. At the same time, we rejoice knowing that we will see him again one day.”
A Life Dedicated to Ministry and Music
Born on March 15, 1935, in Ferriday, Louisiana, Swaggart experienced a powerful religious calling at the age of eight. His life in ministry officially began in 1952 when, at 17, he married 15-year-old Frances Anderson. They later had a son, Donnie. In 1961, he was ordained as a minister in the Assemblies of God, the largest Pentecostal denomination in the U.S.
For over seven decades, Swaggart dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel. The Instagram announcement highlighted his extensive career, noting, “For over seven decades, Brother Swaggart poured out his life preaching the gospel, singing songs of the faith, and pointing millions to the saving power of Jesus Christ and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. His voice echoed through nations, his music softened hearts, and his message never changed: Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”
Beyond his powerful sermons, Swaggart was a gifted musician. A cousin to rock ‘n’ roll icon Jerry Lee Lewis, Swaggart had a successful gospel music career, selling over 17 million albums.
Media Expansion and Global Reach
Swaggart’s ministry significantly expanded through media. In 1969, he launched “The Campmeeting Hour” radio show, followed by “The Evangelist” religious magazine a year later. His foray into television began in 1973 with “The Jimmy Swaggart Evangelistic Association Presents Jimmy Swaggart,” a 30-minute program. He soon began airing live recordings of his church services, translated into multiple languages, reaching an even wider audience.
Throughout the 1980s, Swaggart led massive evangelism crusades both domestically and internationally. One of his most notable events occurred in October 1987 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, drawing an estimated 125,000 attendees.
The Instagram post concluded by honoring his unwavering faith and urging prayers for his family: “He was not just a preacher—he was a worshiper, a warrior, and a witness to the grace and mercy of God. He was a man whose faith was steadfast and always entered whatever door the Lord opened. And the Lord honoured that faith. Please continue to lift up Sister Frances, Donnie, Debbie, Gabriel, Jill, Jennifer, Clif, Matt, Joanna, Sam, Ryder, Abby, Lola, Harper, Navy, Harrison, Caroline and Mackenzie in your prayers.”
While the announcement of his passing emphasized his spiritual contributions, Swaggart’s career also garnered national headlines due to extramarital affairs in the late 1980s, which led to public controversies.
Jimmy Swaggart’s legacy as a passionate preacher, musician, and televangelist who impacted millions globally is undeniable.
