Congratulations to Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) on its 40th anniversary. Paul and Jan Crouch are to be commended for building the world’s largest worldwide broadcasting network. No matter what you may think of the Crouches or TBN, there is no denying the impact—most of it positive—they have had on modern Christianity.
You may remember I had hoped to interview the Crouches a few months ago, but at the last minute, Jan pulled out. That was after I had asked my readers what questions I should ask. If you missed that Strang Report, you can read it here along with the many comments and questions it generated.
We wanted to commemorate the anniversary because it’s significant. I admire Paul and Jan and for many years have considered them friends.
So we dug out of our archives an interview we did 30 years ago for TBN’s 10-year anniversary. In that interview, our writer Dennis Roberts asked them the tough questions people continue to ask, about finances and accountability and why they allow certain people on the air.
Paul and Jan CrouchWhat would you ask Paul and Jan Crouch if you were able to interview them? I have that privilege on Friday.
Over the last four decades, I’ve interviewed people from every walk of life, including President George W. Bush and Oral Roberts. I’ve been on the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) show numerous times, and they have interviewed me.
But on Friday, I have the opportunity for a significant first: After years of working in the same market as Paul and Jan, founders of TBN, I’ll interview them together. TBN will be celebrating its 40th anniversary this May, and the Crouches have given us an exclusive interview.
I was inspired by the presidential debates last fall when they asked ordinary people to submit questions on YouTube and then asked the candidates those questions. Paul and Jan are among the highest-profiled and most-respected Christian leaders. They have had a profound impact on the body of Christ.
I was scheduled to be at TBN in Dallas Friday for an exclusive interview with Paul and Jan Crouch about the Trinity Broadcasting Network's 40th anniversary in May. But it won't happen because Jan Crouch canceled at the last minute.
We don't usually cover ministry anniversaries, but TBN is marking the milestone with a big celebration, and they approached me about running an article in Charisma. I agreed only after they agreed to an exclusive interview with Paul and Jan. Their younger son, Matt, the heir apparent, would have been there. Marcus Yoars, editor of Charisma, and I would have tag-teamed with the questions.
I have known Paul and Jan for many years. I respect what they built, and I recognize its value to the Body of Christ. I can identify with them. We have a common Assemblies of God heritage. They began with very little-just as I did-about the same time. I know they love Jesus and are committed to spreading the gospel.
