Oral Roberts, born on January 24, 1918, in Ada, Oklahoma, was an American Methodist-Pentecostal televangelist and the founder of Oral Roberts University. He grew up in desperate poverty and faced numerous challenges at a young age. At one point, he almost died of tuberculosis, which left a lasting impact on his life and faith.
Despite his difficult childhood, Roberts was determined to make something of himself. He pursued a higher education and eventually began his career as a religious leader. He was known for his controversial views and his charismatic preaching style.
One of Roberts' most significant contributions was pioneering TV evangelism. He was one of the first religious leaders to use the medium of television to reach a wider audience. His programs reached millions of viewers worldwide and helped spread his message of seed-faith Christianity.
Roberts preached a form of Christianity called seed-faith, which emphasized the power of positive thinking and the importance of sowing seeds of faith to reap blessings. This message resonated with many of his followers and helped him build a large and dedicated following over the years.
In 1938, Roberts married Evelyn Lutman, with whom he had four children: two sons, Richard and Ronald Roberts, and two daughters, Roberta Potts and Rebecca Roberts. He was a devoted husband and father, and his family played a significant role in his personal and professional life.
In a live interview with Larry King, Roberts revealed that he was of Cherokee descent, shedding light on his diverse background and cultural heritage. This revelation added another layer of complexity to his already fascinating persona.
Oral Roberts left a lasting legacy in the world of religious leadership and television evangelism. He was a pioneering figure who pushed the boundaries of traditional preaching methods and expanded the reach of his message to millions of people around the globe. His impact continues to be felt today, and his contributions to the world of faith and spirituality are widely recognized and admired.