What happened between Jim Bakker, Jerry Falwell, and Jimmy Swaggart?
Much of what happened between the three men is speculation. Jim Bakker accused both Jerry Falwell and Jimmy Swaggart of trying to steal his ministry to get their hands on his television satellite network (INSP). The dispute between the three men was largely one of doctrine. Falwell was a Baptist preacher, although he identified largely with evangelicalism. Bakker focused mainly on love, prosperity, and forgiveness. He didn’t ban drinking, dancing, movies, or other secular pursuits. His approach to doctrine was more mystical with a focus on the rewards in this life for being part of the chosen people. Swaggart was a traditional fire-breathing, sin-condemning, old-time-revival Pentecostal preacher. He often criticized PTL for their secular affiliations and theme park atmosphere.
