The caller asked Steve about controversial comments Billy Graham has made. Specifically, wrt the destiny of the unevangelized: "those who haven't heard, nor will hear, the gospel."
This led me on a google search. I found various comments Billy Graham made but won't post them.
From what I found, it seems Billy Graham may agree with some type of "Inclusivism" {listed among 'comparatives' defined below}.
Soteriological Pluralism
The view that "All paths lead to God." Jesus Christ is "a way among the many." Held by many theologically liberal Christians and people who are, technically, agnostic.
Exclusivism or Restrictionism
Jesus Christ is the Only Way to God. Personal knowledge of his person, as well as placing personal faith in him, are required for salvation.
Inclusivism
Jesus Christ is the Only Savior. Those who have never heard his name, who have otherwise lived to the best of their ability "according to the light they had" can be saved. This grouping has two basic forms {explained in brief}:
1. 'Soft' Inclusivism
Though all need to hear the gospel of the Only Savior, God can save those who never heard based on "a good life lived." Some in this camp believe a majority of "good people" among those who do not hear, can, and will be, saved.
2. 'Hard' Inclusivism
All need to hear the gospel of the Only Savior. Though God can save those who have not heard, only a minority of humanity will be saved {based on interpretations of other biblical passages regarding salvation that emphasize the sinfulness of humanity and the belief that "few will be saved"}. Thus, though there are those among the "never heard" that God can save: With the saved being a minority: All people desperately need to hear the gospel.
Note: Inclusivists are not Universalists.
Some who identify themselves as "Inclusivists" see "God saving the Never Heard" as only a theoretical possibility. We could possibly call these "Theoretical Inclusivists."
Others are convinced that God not only can, but will, save some of the unevangelized to greater (1., above) and lesser degrees (2., above).
My guess is Billy Graham is a Hard Inclusivist.
{And might be wrong on this}....
My definitions weren't intended to be complete.
They're brief and general(ized).
There are more classifications with sub-classes on the topic; 'other' variations involved.
My position on this topic is: N/A {not applicable}...but that might be "another thread."
Thanks,
