Robert A. Schuller
Robert A. Schuller
Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Anthony Schuller is commonly known as the "Televangelist" or "Minister." His son, Rick Schuller, has also been involved in his ministry.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on July 15, 1926, Robert A. Schuller passed away on April 27, 2015.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Robert A. Schuller was an American televangelist, pastor, author, and motivational speaker of Dutch descent.
Early Life and Background
Robert Anthony Schuller was born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands to parents who were both pastors. He immigrated with his family to the United States at a young age and grew up in Long Beach, California. Schuller's early life was marked by a strong Christian upbringing, which would later shape his ministry.
Schuller began preaching at the age of 16, after being inspired by Aimee Semple McPherson. He studied at Biola University (formerly Los Angeles Bible College) and went on to earn his doctorate in theology from the Graduate Theological Foundation in Indiana.
Major Accomplishments
Robert Schuller's greatest achievement was founding the Crystal Cathedral Ministries, which eventually became part of the Protestant denomination known as the United Church of Christ. Under his leadership, the Crystal Cathedral grew into a massive complex with a large glass cathedral and an impressive congregation.
Schuller is also famous for writing over 30 books on Christian living and inspirational topics. His most notable work is "Your First Day" (1973), which offers practical advice to people who have recently made a commitment to follow Jesus Christ.
Notable Works or Actions
As the senior pastor of the Crystal Cathedral, Schuller's Sunday services were broadcast across the country on television from 1955 until 2010. His charismatic style and message of hope drew millions of viewers each week.
Schuller was also known for his role as a motivational speaker, encouraging people to live their lives with purpose and faith in God. He often used parables and examples from everyday life to illustrate spiritual principles.
Impact and Legacy
Robert Schuller's impact on American Christianity cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to ministry, using television as a medium for spreading the Gospel, helped to make faith more accessible to millions of people across the country.
Schuller was also an advocate for social justice and human rights, often speaking out against issues such as racism, poverty, and inequality. His emphasis on personal growth, self-improvement, and spiritual development inspired countless individuals to strive for a better life.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Robert Schuller's quotes are widely quoted because of his inspiring and thought-provoking messages. As a pioneer in the field of televangelism, he helped shape modern Christianity into what it is today. His emphasis on faith, hope, and love has inspired generations to live their lives with purpose and passion.
Schuller's legacy extends far beyond his television broadcasts or books. He embodied the spirit of compassion, kindness, and generosity that defines true Christian leadership.
Quotes by Robert A. Schuller
The Crystal Cathedral Ministries, the assets and the buildings, would still be in the hands of the ministries if my father would have simply walked away. When I accepted the role as the next senior pastor, he had agreed to be an ambassador-at-large and raise funds for the endowment fund. He didn't do that.
I'm fully and completely convinced that the 'Hour of Power' is a step in leading people to a fuller understanding of who Jesus is. I can't tell you how many people have watched the 'Hour of Power' and say, 'Now I feel confident to be able to go to a church'... That's what the 'Hour of Power' does.
They decided to no longer air my messages on 'The Hour of Power.' They felt they could have greater impact if they had lots of different preachers. 'The Hour of Power' owns the Crystal Cathedral, and the owners, in effect, evicted me... so that they could have other preachers on Sunday mornings.
Don't let a temporal way to connect be a poor substitute for an eternal way. Without first being connected vertically to God, all the social networking contacts in the world won't be enough.
I'm short-selling my house. I have more loans than I can sell the house for. The house will not go into foreclosure. It will be a short sale. I can't afford the house as I once could.
I think family-run ministries are fabulous, but they have to be placed in proper governance.
I think there's definitely a potential there for a congregation to survive without the Crystal Cathedral. The congregation is the people. It's not the building.
Don't stop at the first obstacle; have endurance to keep on going and you will succeed.
Open your eyes that you might see that all things are possible through you (with God's help)