Televangelism
Christianity has consistently underscored the importance of spreading the gospel globally—a directive rooted in biblical teachings as it says in Mark 16:15, ‘And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature’
Over time, the evolution of gospel preaching has been dynamic, adapting to advancements in communication. Initially reliant on missionaries, the invention of the printing press revolutionized the distribution of Bibles. The rapid embrace of radio provided a cost-effective platform for reaching a wider audience. Television, introduced in the 1930s, marked another transformative shift, utilizing visual storytelling for gospel dissemination. The digital age has ushered in a new era, leveraging the internet, social media, and live streaming to connect with global audiences instantaneously. This evolution reflects a continual effort to employ contemporary tools to effectively share the timeless message of the gospel.
Televangelism gained popularity due to its ability to leverage the reach and impact of television to broadcast religious messages on a large scale. Pioneers like Bishop Fulton Sheen used television to engage and inspire audiences. The visual and auditory appeal of televangelism allowed preachers to connect with viewers in their homes.
Bishop Rangaraju was driven by a fervent passion to impart the significance of deeper life experiences, urging believers to confront challenges with a godly and biblical perspective.
In 2004, an opportunity arose to share the Gospel on local television, ‘Citi Cable’, that would reach the subscribers of the channel in and around the town of Hindupur. Despite initial challenges, persistent efforts led to doors opening on national channels, allowing the message of hope to resonate across many nations.
The TV ministry, aptly titled ‘Sajeeva Swaram,’ meaning ‘The Living Word’ in English, has become a powerful force for spiritual revival, renewal, and empowerment. Bishop Rangaraju has emerged as a well-known TV speaker, spreading the good news of our savior, and delivering impactful messages during the broadcast on the ‘Subhavartha’ Channel during prime time.
This television ministry played a pivotal role in church planting, significantly contributing to the establishment of NJHM in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Notably, the church in Bangalore, established on November 22, 2009, owes its existence to the fervent prayers and faithful preaching featured on the program ‘Sajeeva Swaram’. The initial congregation comprised viewers of the program, and today, congregants gather at New Jerusalem Church in Horamavu, Bangalore, for worship, fellowship, discipleship, and stewardship.
Presently, complementing its television ministry, NJHM operates a dedicated YouTube channel named ‘New Jerusalem Harvest Ministries.’ This platform broadcasts live church services and programs, featuring impactful worship songs composed and performed by Bishop Rangaraju, Sis. Glory Rani Rangaraju, and their children. Through the strategic utilization of cutting-edge technologies and media, coupled with the commitment of a dedicated team of volunteers, we have successfully reached billions of believers and diverse populations. This outreach extends the message of God’s care, protection, and deliverance to a global audience, showcasing the might of the Living God in a contemporary digital landscape.