Preacher Tells Pentagon What?
Rev. Franklin Graham delivered a direct and faith-centered message this week during a Christmas worship service attended by U.S. service members and Pentagon employees, reminding the audience that God is not only loving, but also just and authoritative.
Speaking during the holiday gathering, Graham referenced Scripture emphasizing God’s love for humanity and the promise of eternal life through faith. He also cautioned that many Americans today prefer a selective view of faith—embracing comfort while avoiding accountability.
Graham explained that the Bible consistently presents God as a righteous judge who confronts evil. He noted that this aspect of faith is often ignored in modern culture, even though it appears throughout Scripture.
During his remarks, Graham referenced an Old Testament passage involving Israel’s King Saul, who was commanded by God to fully confront Israel’s enemies. According to the biblical account, Saul failed to obey completely, a decision that carried serious consequences.
Graham said the story serves as a reminder that faith requires obedience, not convenience. He added that rejecting uncomfortable parts of Scripture does not change their meaning.
“Many people say, ‘That’s not the God I believe in,’” Graham said during the service. “But that is the God of the Bible.”
Turning his focus to the present day, Graham encouraged Americans to reflect on the moral condition of the nation. He urged prayer for national healing and called for a return to the faith principles that guided previous generations.
Graham also praised Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for supporting military chaplains and protecting religious expression within the armed forces. He described faith as a foundational pillar of the nation and thanked Hegseth for standing behind it.
The Christmas service included worship music and additional speakers. Hegseth later shared highlights from the event on social media, writing that the gathering was centered on honoring God and encouraging those who serve the country.
Hegseth also addressed service members during the event, speaking openly about the importance of spiritual strength alongside physical readiness.
Graham’s remarks followed recent comments from Hegseth regarding reforms to the military’s chaplain program. The defense secretary announced plans to remove an Army spiritual fitness guide, arguing that the document focused heavily on emotional language while largely excluding traditional faith and moral values.
According to Hegseth, the guide placed little emphasis on God, virtue, or personal responsibility—principles he believes are essential to building character and resilience within the military.
For many observers, the Christmas service and the changes that followed reflect a renewed emphasis on faith, tradition, and moral clarity at the Pentagon during the holiday season.
