In the October 15, 1956 inaugural issue of Christianity Today, founder Billy Graham authored an article, "Biblical Authority in Evangelism." Over 50 years later, Leadership's Angie Ward interviewed five respected American preachers about what's changed, if anything, in light of today's culture. We offer excerpts from Graham's original article, along with comments by these leaders. Their insights help us understand our world so we can better touch our culture with the gospel.

Billy Graham:No one who once heard Jesus could ever again be the same. What was the secret of this Master Teacher? How did He hold these crowds spellbound?

"When Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine; for he taught them as one having authority" (Matt. 7:28, 29). Is not this authoritative note part of the secret of the earthly ministry of Christ? The great prophets of the past had also spoken with authority. The impact of their preaching cannot be ...