Famous American Preachers

Charles Grandison Finney was a prominent Presbyterian minister and leader during the Second Great Awakening in the U.S. Known as the "Father of Old Revivalism," he was a passionate preacher, advocate of Christian perfectionism, and opponent of traditional Reformed theology. Finney played a key role in promoting social reforms such as abolitionism and equal education for women and African Americans. He taught at Oberlin College, where he served as president and led activism for abolitionism, the Underground Railroad, and universal education.

James Clayton Dobson Jr. is an American evangelical Christian author, psychologist, and founder of Focus on the Family (FotF). He led FotF from 1977 until 2010, during which time he was considered one of the most influential spokesmen for conservative social positions in American public life. Dobson produced the daily radio program Focus on the Family, broadcast worldwide in multiple languages. He advocates for "family values," promoting heterosexual marriage and traditional gender roles based on Christian teachings. Dobson has founded various organizations, including the Family Research Council and the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute, to spread his ideas.

Anne Hutchinson was a Puritan spiritual advisor and religious reformer known for her strong convictions that clashed with established clergy in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Her popularity and charisma led to a theological schism, resulting in her trial, conviction, and banishment from the colony. Hutchinson was influential in the Antinomian Controversy and accused local ministers of preaching unorthodox theological teachings. She later established the settlement of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and challenged ministerial authority while advocating for religious freedom and civil liberty.

Henry Ward Beecher was an influential American Congregationalist clergyman, social reformer, and speaker known for his support of the abolition of slavery, emphasis on God's love, and unique oratorical style. He became the first pastor of the Plymouth Church in Brooklyn, New York, where he gained fame for his lectures. Beecher was involved in social reform movements, including abolitionism and women's suffrage. Despite facing scandal and a widely reported adultery trial, he remained a prominent figure in 19th-century America.

Cotton Mather was a prominent Puritan clergyman and author in colonial New England, known for his extensive writings on theological, historical, and scientific topics. He served as a minister at the Congregationalist Old North Meeting House in Boston, where he preached for his entire life. Mather played a key role in the 1689 revolt against Governor Andros and was involved in the controversial Salem witch trials. He was also noted for his work as a historian, particularly with his publication of Magnalia Christi Americana in 1702. Mather's contributions to science included research on plant hybridization and promotion of inoculation against smallpox, which sparked controversy in Boston.

William J. Seymour was a Holiness Pentecostal preacher known for initiating the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in 1906. He preached a Pentecostal message emphasizing speaking in tongues as a sign of receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit. His leadership of the revival and publication of The Apostolic Faith newspaper propelled him to prominence in the young Pentecostal movement. Seymour's efforts to develop the revival into a larger organization, the Apostolic Faith Movement, were hindered by power struggles with other ministers, leading to a decline in his influence.

Kenneth Erwin Hagin was an influential American preacher known for his role in founding the Word of Faith movement. Throughout his professional life, he dedicated himself to spreading his teachings through various mediums such as books, radio broadcasts, and speaking engagements. Hagin's teachings emphasized the power of positive confession, healing, and prosperity through faith in God's promises. His ministry had a significant impact on the landscape of evangelical Christianity, inspiring many followers and establishing a lasting legacy in the realm of spiritual teachings.

Adoniram Judson was a dedicated American missionary who spent almost forty years in Burma, preaching and translating the Bible into Burmese. He was instrumental in establishing the first Baptist association in America to support missionaries, working closely with Luther Rice. Judson's efforts led to the formation of numerous Baptist churches in Burma, and he is recognized as one of the pioneering Protestant missionaries to the region. His work and dedication have had a lasting impact on the spread of Christianity in Burma.

Father Divine was an American spiritual leader who founded the International Peace Mission movement. He was known as "the Messenger" early in his life and went on to oversee the growth of the movement from a small, predominantly black congregation to a multiracial and international church. Despite his significant impact in forming the movement's doctrine, he faced controversy and criticism for claiming to be God, leading many to view him as a cult leader.

Lyman Beecher was a Presbyterian minister known for his active engagement in religious controversy during his lifetime. Despite this, he earned widespread respect as a prominent religious figure of his era. He was highly regarded for embodying the moral ideals of the nation and providing leadership to the established clergy. Beecher's influence extended beyond his theological contributions, as he played a significant role in shaping the religious landscape of his time and was viewed as a key figure in guiding the clergy towards moral leadership.

Carlton Pearson was an American Christian minister and gospel music artist known for leading the Higher Dimensions Evangelistic Center, later renamed the Higher Dimensions Family Church, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which had over 6,000 attendees in the 1990s. He faced backlash from the Joint College of African-American Pentecostal Bishops due to his belief in universal reconciliation, leading to his declaration as a heretic in 2004. Pearson later served as the senior minister of Christ Universal Temple in Chicago and was associated with All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa.

Fulton J. Sheen was an American Catholic bishop known for his preaching on television and radio. He was ordained a priest in 1919 and became a renowned theologian, winning the Cardinal Mercier Prize for International Philosophy in 1923. Sheen taught theology and philosophy at the Catholic University of America before serving as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of New York. He hosted popular radio and television programs, winning two Emmy Awards, and is considered one of the first televangelists. Sheen's cause for canonization was opened in 2002, and he was declared venerable by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012.

John Humphrey Noyes was an American preacher, radical religious philosopher, and utopian socialist known for founding the Putney, Oneida, and Wallingford Communities. He was a prominent figure in the American utopian movement of the 19th century and is credited with coining the term "complex marriage" to describe the communal living arrangements in his communities. Noyes' professional life was dedicated to promoting his unique social and religious beliefs, challenging traditional norms, and advocating for a more communal and egalitarian society.

John Cotton, a prominent clergyman in England and the American colonies, was renowned for his scholarly pursuits and exceptional preaching skills. As a Puritan minister, he sought to reform the Church of England from within, advocating for simpler practices and preaching. Despite facing pressure and eventually being forced into hiding, Cotton thrived in his ministry in both England and Massachusetts. He played a significant role in religious controversies, governance of New England churches, and the development of Congregationalism, leaving a lasting impact on the religious landscape of his time.

William Ellery Channing was a prominent Unitarian preacher and theologian in the early nineteenth century United States. Known for his articulate sermons and public speeches, Channing was a leading figure in liberal theology. His influence extended to the New England Transcendentalists, although he did not fully embrace their views. Channing's advocacy for Unitarianism was evident in his notable "Baltimore Sermon" delivered in 1819. He played a key role in shaping the theological landscape of his time and was highly respected for his intellectual contributions.

Clarence LaVaughn Franklin was an influential American Baptist minister and civil rights activist. Known for his powerful oratory skills, he served as the pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit for over three decades. His preaching style and dedication to social justice made him a prominent figure in the civil rights movement. Franklin's impact extended beyond the church walls as he used his platform to advocate for equality and justice for all.

Orestes Brownson was a versatile American intellectual known for his roles as a publicist, preacher, labor organizer, and writer. Initially associated with the New England Transcendentalists, he later converted to Roman Catholicism, shaping his career trajectory. Throughout his professional life, Brownson engaged in various intellectual pursuits, contributing to the public discourse through his writings and activism. His journey from transcendentalism to Catholicism reflects his deep intellectual curiosity and commitment to exploring different philosophical and religious perspectives.

Dwight Lyman Moody, also known as D. L. Moody, was an influential American evangelist and publisher associated with Keswickianism. He founded several institutions including the Moody Church, Northfield School, Mount Hermon School (now Northfield Mount Hermon School), Moody Bible Institute, and Moody Publishers. Moody gave up a successful boot and shoe business to focus on revivalism. He played a significant role in the Civil War by supporting Union troops through the YMCA. Moody's dynamic speaking style, often accompanied by singer Ira Sankey, drew large crowds in both the United States and the British Isles.

The Public Universal Friend was an American preacher who claimed to have died and been reanimated as a genderless evangelist. In androgynous attire, the Friend preached throughout the northeastern United States, advocating for free will, opposing slavery, and promoting sexual abstinence. The Friend's followers, known as the Society of Universal Friends, included a group of unmarried women who held leadership roles. The Society eventually settled in Western New York, forming the town of Jerusalem. The Friend's legacy has been interpreted in various ways, from being seen as a fraudster to a pioneer for women's rights, or as a transgender/non-binary historical figure.

Hal Lindsey is an American evangelical writer and television host known for his popular apocalyptic books, starting with The Late Great Planet Earth in 1970. He is recognized for asserting that the Apocalypse or end time, including the rapture, was imminent due to current events aligning with Bible prophecy. Lindsey is a Christian Zionist and dispensationalist, emphasizing the belief that biblical events are unfolding in contemporary times. Through his writings and television appearances, he has had a significant impact on evangelical thought regarding eschatology.

Marcelino Manuel da Graça, also known as Charles Manuel "Sweet Daddy" Grace, was the founder and first bishop of the United House of Prayer For All People. He was a prominent figure in the African-American community and a contemporary of other religious leaders. Grace's ministry was marked by reported miraculous acts of faith healing during his services, leading many to see him as a divine messenger. His followers believed his work signified the imminent return of Jesus Christ, solidifying his reputation as a respected and influential religious leader.

Amanda Smith was an American Methodist preacher and former slave known for her leadership in the Wesleyan-Holiness movement. She founded the Amanda Smith Orphanage and Industrial Home for Abandoned and Destitute Colored Children near Chicago. Throughout her career, she preached the doctrine of entire sanctification at Methodist camp meetings globally. Amanda Smith's professional life was marked by her dedication to uplifting and supporting marginalized communities, particularly children in need, through her philanthropic work and advocacy for spiritual renewal and social justice.

Allen Allensworth was a prominent figure in American history, serving as a chaplain, colonel, city founder, and theologian. He escaped slavery during the Civil War and went on to become ordained as a Baptist minister. Allensworth worked as a teacher, led churches, and served as a chaplain in the US Army. He made history by becoming the first African American to reach the rank of lieutenant colonel in the army. Allensworth was also a renowned public speaker, inspiring Black youth through his lectures and founding the community of Allensworth, California.

Harold Samuel Kushner was a well-respected American rabbi, author, and lecturer, known for his progressive views within the Conservative movement. Serving as the congregational rabbi of Temple Israel of Natick for 24 years, he gained acclaim for his ability to simplify complex theological concepts in his popular books. He received accolades such as the Christopher Award and the Jewish Book Council's Lifetime Achievement Award for his works, which include explorations of human suffering, divine kindness, and life's purpose. Arguing against an interventionist God, Kushner emphasized God's role in providing comfort to those in need.

William R. Bright was an American evangelist known for founding Campus Crusade for Christ in 1951 at the University of California, Los Angeles. He authored The Four Spiritual Laws in 1952 and produced the film Jesus in 1979. In 1996, he was awarded the $1.1 million Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion, which he donated to promote fasting and prayer. Bright stepped down as leader of the organization in 2001, passing the torch to Steve Douglass, and passed away in 2003.

William Miller was an American clergyman known for starting the mid-19th-century religious movement called Millerism. His proclamation of the Second Coming, anticipated in the 1840s, did not come to pass as predicted. Despite this, his teachings inspired the emergence of new groups such as the Advent Christians in 1860, the Seventh-day Adventists in 1863, and other Adventist movements. Miller's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the beliefs and practices of various Adventist denominations that continue to exist today.

Nouman Ali Khan is an American Islamic scholar known for founding the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies. His professional journey includes serving as an Arabic instructor at Nassau Community College. Recognized for his expertise, he has been listed among the 500 most influential Muslims globally by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan. With a focus on Arabic and Qur’anic studies, Nouman Ali Khan has made significant contributions to the field, impacting individuals worldwide through his teachings and scholarly work.

Carl McIntire was a prominent figure in the religious community, serving as a founder and minister in the Bible Presbyterian Church. He also founded and presided over the International Council of Christian Churches and the American Council of Christian Churches. McIntire was known for his role as a religious radio broadcaster, where he shared his fundamentalist beliefs with a wide audience. Throughout his professional life, McIntire was dedicated to promoting and defending his conservative Christian views through various platforms and organizations.

Moishe Rosen was an American minister known for founding and serving as the Executive Director of Jews for Jesus. He played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's mission of evangelizing to the Jewish community through Christian teachings. Rosen dedicated his professional life to promoting interfaith dialogue and bridging the gap between Christianity and Judaism. His work with Jews for Jesus highlighted his commitment to spreading the Christian faith among Jews while fostering understanding and respect between different religious beliefs.

Steve Brown is an American Christian author, radio broadcaster, and former seminary professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. Known for his Calvinist beliefs, he is ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America. With a career spanning across writing, broadcasting, and teaching, Steve Brown has been influential in spreading Christian teachings and perspectives. His work reflects a deep understanding of theological concepts and a commitment to sharing his beliefs with others through various mediums.

Johnny Lee Clary was a professional wrestler known as Johnny Angel in the National Wrestling Federation (NWF) during the 1980s. He later became a prominent figure in the white supremacist movement, serving as a Ku Klux Klan leader. However, after a personal transformation, Clary renounced his racist beliefs and embraced Christianity. He dedicated his life to preaching against racism and hate groups like the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazis, and the Aryan Nations, traveling globally to spread his message of unity and love.

Ted Arthur Haggard is an American Methodist pastor known for founding and leading New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He also played a key role in establishing the Association of Life-Giving Churches and served as president of the National Association of Evangelicals. Haggard faced public scrutiny in 2006 when allegations of drug use and sexual impropriety emerged, leading to his resignation from New Life Church. Despite this, he later founded Saint James Church with his wife in Colorado Springs in 2010.

Ann Lee was the founding leader of the Shakers, later known as the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing. She played a significant role in influencing religion during the Evangelical revival in England and the Americas. After years of religious involvement, she emigrated from England to New York with a small group of followers. They settled in Niskayuna, New York, where they worshiped through ecstatic dancing or "shaking," leading to the group being named the Shakers. Ann Lee preached to the public and served as a prominent religious leader, often viewed as the female representation of God.

Edward Robinson was an American biblical scholar renowned for his groundbreaking work in Biblical Geography and Biblical Archaeology. His magnum opus, Biblical Researches in Palestine, solidified his reputation as the "Father of Biblical Geography" and "Founder of Modern Palestinology." He studied in the United States and Germany, translating scriptural works and producing influential works such as the Greek and English Lexicon of the New Testament. His contributions became standard authorities in the field and were widely circulated in both the United States and Great Britain.

Joel Osteen is an American pastor, televangelist, businessman, and author located in Houston, Texas. He is renowned for his weekly televised services and numerous best-selling books. Osteen is a prominent figure within the prosperity theology and Word of Faith movement. His work revolves around spreading messages of positivity, hope, and empowerment through his teachings and publications. With a strong presence in the religious and literary worlds, Osteen's professional endeavors have made a significant impact on the lives of many individuals seeking spiritual guidance and inspiration.

Gary Spivey is a well-known spiritual healer and psychic who has built a successful career through various platforms. He has appeared on radio programs, television shows, and live casino events, showcasing his psychic abilities. Spivey also offers personal readings, conducts seminars, workshops, and retreats, where he shares his spiritual insights with audiences. With a strong presence in the media and live events, he has established himself as a reputable figure in the realm of spiritual healing and psychic phenomena.

George Albert Smith was an early leader in the Latter Day Saint movement, serving in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and as a member of the First Presidency of the LDS Church. He played a significant role in the settlement of numerous communities in southern Utah. Smith also had involvement in the events leading up to the Mountain Meadows Massacre in 1857. His contributions to the development of St. George, Utah, were notable, possibly resulting in the city being named after him.

John M. Mason was an American theologian and preacher known for his eloquence and leadership in educational institutions. He held prestigious positions such as Provost of Columbia College in the 1810s and president of Dickinson College in the early-1820s. With a career spanning 17 years as a pastor, he was highly regarded for his oratory skills. Mason's professional life was marked by his significant contributions to academia and his impactful role in the religious community through his preaching and leadership roles in prominent educational institutions.

Peter J. Gomes was a renowned preacher and lecturer, recognized by Time Magazine as one of the "seven stars of the pulpit." He delivered speeches across the US and UK, represented Harvard at Cambridge University, and authored ten volumes of sermons along with bestsellers like "The Good Book" and "Sermons." Gomes advocated for LGBTQ acceptance and challenged interpretations of morality in the Bible. He was actively involved in various academic and religious institutions, maintaining ties with prestigious universities and serving in leadership roles.

Philip Embury was a Methodist preacher known for his leadership in establishing one of the earliest Methodist congregations in the United States. He played a significant role in spreading Methodism in the American colonies, particularly in New York City. Embury's professional life was dedicated to preaching and organizing Methodist gatherings, contributing to the growth and development of the Methodist movement in the early days of American history. His efforts laid the foundation for the Methodist Church's expansion and influence in the United States.

Mary Hannah Fulton was a dedicated medical missionary sent to South China by the Presbyterian Church. She founded a dispensary in Kwai Ping and played a key role in establishing the Hackett Medical College for Women, focusing on training women in medicine. Fulton actively preached the Presbyterian faith in China and contributed to the translation of English medical texts into Chinese. Through her work, she significantly impacted healthcare and education for women in the region, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of medicine.

Fidelia Fisk was an American Congregationalist missionary and teacher known for her work in Qajar Iran. She founded the Fiske Seminary boarding school in Urmia, West Azerbaijan Province, where she dedicated herself to educating and empowering students. Fisk's professional life was characterized by her passion for providing quality education and her commitment to serving others through her missionary work. Her legacy lives on through the impact she made on the lives of the students she taught and the community she served.

William Richards was a prominent figure in the Kingdom of Hawaii, serving as a missionary and politician. He played a crucial role in spreading Christianity and Western education in the islands, working closely with Hawaiian royalty to establish schools and churches. Richards also served as a diplomatic advisor, negotiating treaties with foreign powers to protect Hawaii's sovereignty. His efforts helped shape the cultural and political landscape of the kingdom during a period of significant change and modernization.

Metropolitan Mor Athanasius Yeshue Samuel, also known as Mor Samuel, was a prominent figure in the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch. He served as the First Metropolitan and Archbishop in the United States and Canada, as well as the Metropolitan of Jerusalem. Mor Samuel played a crucial role in the discovery and acquisition of the Dead Sea Scrolls, including the famous Isaiah Scroll. He later relocated to the United States and continued to serve the Syriac Orthodox Church, ultimately becoming Archbishop of the newly established Archdiocese of the United States and Canada.

Lucy Whitehead McGill Waterbury Peabody was an influential American Baptist missionary in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She played a key role in Baptist foreign missions, founding the Farther Lights Society and advocating for missions through various publications. Peabody collaborated with Helen Barrett Montgomery on writing projects and chaired committees focused on missionary education and literature. She founded Everyland magazine and later established the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism, which set up missions in the Philippines. Peabody's work emphasized ecumenism, education, and women's leadership in missions.

Laura Maria Sheldon Wright's professional life was centered around her deep connection to Native American culture and her dedication to promoting education and agriculture among the Seneca Indians. After marrying a missionary to the Seneca tribe, she learned their language and actively worked to improve their lives. Wright's efforts extended to forming the Iroquois Temperance League, highlighting her commitment to social reform and advocating for temperance within the Native American community. Her work exemplified a strong sense of cultural appreciation and a desire to uplift those around her.

Lori Bakker is an American televangelist, author, and motivational speaker known for her dedication to spreading positivity and spiritual upliftment. She founded 'Lori’s House,' an organization that offers support to pregnant women and those impacted by abortion. Bakker's professional endeavors also include co-hosting 'The Jim Bakker Show' with her husband, where they provide spiritual guidance to viewers. Her journey from a troubled past to a life focused on helping others showcases her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those in need.