Franklin Graham Delivers Easter Message in Rome with Michael W. Smith Leading Worship

On Easter Sunday, Franklin Graham reflected on Jesus Christ's death on the cross and celebrated His victory over the grave. The program, called The New Birth: Easter From Rome With Franklin Graham, features music from Michael W. Smith, along with a choir and 46-member orchestra. It was shown nationwide, as well as in Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, India, and Africa. 

Reflecting on the significance of Rome, Graham says, "Jesus was born in the Roman Empire. He ministered in the Roman Empire," he explains. "[Rome is] a place full of religious history, but we need more than religion. We need a relationship with God, and the only way that we can have that relationship is through faith in God's Son Jesus Christ." 

In the program, Franklin Graham references some of the Romans who played a part in Jesus' life and ministry: a centurion who had full faith in Christ's ability to heal his servant; Pilate, the Roman governor who could find no fault in Jesus; and Roman soldiers placed at Jesus' tomb.

He also tells about Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus, a religious man who was missing something in his life.

"Have you been trusting in religion to save you?" Franklin Graham asks.

There's only One who's able to forgive you, rescue you from despair, give you peace, and offer you eternal life, he says. "Whatever mountain is in front of you, whatever storm you're facing, I'm here to tell you that Jesus Christ is the answer."

"When I think of resurrection, I think of freedom because I'm free," Smith says during the Easter special. "I once was dead and now I'm alive. ...

"As a songwriter, there's nothing greater to write about because that's what the world needs to hear."

 

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