In a heartfelt message, Perry Stone opened up about a deeply personal and impactful phone call he once received from evangelist Jimmy Swaggart, an encounter that would help shape his ministry and leave a lasting legacy on his spiritual journey. More than just a phone conversation, it was a symbol of mentorship, generosity and spiritual heritage.
Stone began by honoring Swaggart’s significant influence on a generation of ministers, including himself, Jentezen Franklin and Marcus Lamb. In the 1970s, as an 18-year-old launching Voice of Evangelism, then just a humble flyer, Stone drew inspiration from Swaggart’s widespread cassette ministry and his publication, The Evangelist. Though others mocked his vision, the Lord had confirmed the name and direction, and it has since grown into a global outreach.
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Swaggart’s televised ministry was a must-watch on Sunday morning for Stone and many traveling evangelists. The powerful preaching, passionate worship and musical excellence of his TV broadcasting set a standard in evangelical media. Stone described how, before his own ministry had office space or staff, he looked at Swaggart’s operations with a prayerful desire: “Lord, one day help me to have the office space I need to do everything we do.” Today, Stone’s ministry spans 120 acres, a testimony to those early dreams.
During a difficult season in Stone’s life, a Spirit-led connection was made. Through mutual acquaintances, Stone received a phone call from Swaggart, and was given permission to use any of his artwork for his own books and publications, a gesture of generosity that came when Stone’s ministry was still in its early stages.
Stone also described insights he learned from Swaggart’s life about the rigors of television ministry and maintaining global outreach.
Stone went on to credit Swaggart with helping bring the message of the Holy Spirit into mainstream Christianity. Where once teachings on the Holy Spirit were limited to Pentecostal and charismatic churches, Swaggart began drawing Baptists, Methodists and even Catholics into Holy Spirit-filled meetings around the world.
For Stone, Swaggart’s influence wasn’t just professional, it was deeply personal and lifelong. “Before I was ever married he was very pivotal in my life,” he said. “After I got married, we watched him on TV consistently…”
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As Jimmy Swaggart faces serious health challenges, Perry Stone’s tribute serves as a reminder of how one life, committed to preaching Christ and empowered by the Spirit, can touch millions—and inspire generations.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
