A Tribute to Dr. Charles Stanley

In his Sunday sermon tribute to his spiritual father, the late Dr. Charles Stanley, Louie Giglio, Lead Pastor of Passion City Church, described what it was like growing up with his close friend Andy Stanley, Dr. Stanley’s son,  and visiting the Stanley home. He shared that over the years, he has often been asked what Dr. Stanley was like at home. It’s an honest question considering the accomplished writer, world-renowned orator, and pastor whose sermons have been broadcast in 180 countries worldwide and translated into 55 languages, was also a father. In his heartfelt tribute, Pastor Louie eloquently expressed that the Charles Stanley he admired in the pulpit was also, simply, Andy’s dad. 

His example reminds us that we as Christians have both a loving Father and Holy God that we serve in Heaven. Romans 8:15 states, 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”

Through the death and resurrection of His son Jesus Christ, we are God’s adopted children called into an intimate relationship with the Father of all of Creation. Carrying the distinction of God’s people, we are also called to be holy as He is holy. 

1 Peter 1:15-16 states, “But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.”. 

As we honour Dr. Stanley’s life and ministry, let us strive to proclaim the gospel as he did with clarity and unwavering truth with action and words, always giving glory to God. In next week’s reflection, we will continue to explore what it means to serve a Loving and Holy God.