Who Is Greg Laurie? A Life Transformed by Faith and Revival

November 21, 2025 Maya Willow 0 Comments

Greg Laurie has touched countless lives with his simple message of hope. Born in 1952, he grew up in a world of change and pain. Today, as senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship, he leads one of America’s largest churches. His story shows how faith can change everything. From stadium events to daily radio talks, Greg Laurie brings the Bible to everyday people. In this article, we dive into his life, work, and why so many turn to him for guidance.

Table of Contents

A Tough Start: Greg Laurie’s Early Years

Life did not start easily for Greg Laurie. He came into the world on December 10, 1952, in Long Beach, California. His mom raised him alone after seven marriages. No steady dad figure shaped his days. The 1960s swirled around him with wild music, protests, and free love. But home felt like a storm. Parties raged late into the night. Young Greg hid in the noise, feeling lost¹.

As a kid, he turned to fun that hurt. Drugs and drinks numbed the ache. School at Newport Harbor High became his escape. Yet deep down, he hungered for more. “I was searching for truth,” he later shared in talks. This search led him to friends who spoke of Jesus. They lived differently, full of joy amid the chaos.

No church background guided him. No family prayers filled his nights. Still, seeds of change waited. His story mirrors many who feel alone today. If you wonder about purpose, Greg Laurie‘s path offers light. He proves pain can lead to power.

Key Moments from His Childhood

Family Struggles: Seven stepdads meant constant moves and broken trust.
Cultural Pull: The counterculture tempted him with quick fixes, but left him empty.
Inner Search: Books and talks sparked questions about life and God.

These years built grit. They taught him to spot real hope from fake highs. Fans of Greg Laurie daily devotional often nod here. His words remind us: Tough starts don’t define ends.

The Turning Point: Greg Laurie’s Conversion

At 17, everything flipped. It was 1970. The Jesus Movement swept California beaches. Young people ditched old ways for a new life in Christ. Lonnie Frisbee, a bold preacher, spoke at a high school rally. His words hit Greg hard. “Jesus loves you right now,” Lonnie said. Greg felt seen for the first time.

That night, he knelt and prayed. Tears flowed as chains broke. No more drugs. No more doubt. Just peace. “It was like waking from a bad dream,” he recalled. This moment birthed Evangelist Greg Laurie. From seeker to sharer overnight.

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The change spread fast. Friends noticed. Greg shared his story at school. Soon, a small group met in homes. By 19, in 1971, he led 30 teens in Bible study. Mentored by Chuck Smith of Calvary Chapel, he learned to teach simply. No fancy words, just straight truth.

This conversion fuels his work still. In Greg Laurie testimony, he stresses that one step starts it all. For seekers asking, “Who is Greg Laurie?”, this answers: A man God redeemed for revival.

Why This Matters Today

Relatable Shift: Many in their teens or twenties face similar pulls. His tale reassures: Change is possible.
Movement Echo: The Jesus Movement birthed modern praise music and youth faith. Greg carries his fire.
Personal Invite: He always ends talks with “Come to Jesus now.” Simple, urgent, kind.

Listeners to Greg Laurie live stream feel that pull. It’s not history, it’s hope for now.

Building a Church: The Birth of Harvest Christian Fellowship

Dreams grew into action. In 1973, at 20, Greg started Harvest Christian Fellowship. It began as a youth group under Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. Thirty kids crammed into a home in Riverside. Songs, prayers, and laughs filled the air. Growth exploded. By year’s end, hundreds joined.

Riverside became the home base. The church now boasts campuses in California and Hawaii. Over 15,000 attend weekly. Greg serves as senior pastor, preaching with energy. “Church should feel alive,” he says. No stiff suits, just jeans and joy.

In the late 1970s and 1980s, he built it strong. Radio shows like A New Beginning launched. TV spots followed. Families flocked. Weddings, baptisms, and outreaches marked the days. Greg married Cathe in 1974 after a rocky three-year chase. Their love story inspires. Over 50 years strong by 2025, with two sons and five grandkids.

Challenges came. The 2008 loss of son Christopher in a car crash broke hearts. At 33, Chris left a wife and two girls. Greg wrote Hope for Hurting Hearts from that pain. “God turns ashes to beauty,” he teaches. This trial deepened his reach.

Today, Greg Laurie church streams worldwide. Harvest.org sermons draw 100,000+ views weekly. From Southern California megachurch roots, it spans nations.

Growth Milestones

1973 Launch: Small group to full church.
1980s Expansion: Media adds voices.
2000s Trials: Loss strengthens faith.
2020s Online Boom: Pandemic pushes digital doors wide.

For churchgoers, Greg Laurie biography reads like a blueprint. Build on love, share boldly.

Category	Details
Full Name	Greg Laurie
Birth Date	December 10, 1952
Birth Place	Long Beach, California, USA
Early Life	Raised by a single mother who was married seven times, faced a turbulent childhood involving drugs and alcohol as a pre-teen; converted to Christianity in high school during the Jesus Movement under the influence of evangelist Lonnie Frisbee.
Education	Attended Newport Harbor High School; studied theology and ministry at Life Pacific College in San Dimas, California.
Marriage	Married to Cathe (Cathe Laurie) since 1974 (over 51 years as of 2025).
Children	Two sons: Christopher (1975–2008, died in a car accident at age 33, leaving wife Brittany and two daughters, Stella and Lucy) and Jonathan.
Grandchildren	Five grandchildren.
Current Residence	Newport Beach, California.
Career Start	Began ministry at age 19 in 1971, leading a small Bible study group of 30 people that grew into Harvest Christian Fellowship.
Current Role	Senior Pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship (campuses in Riverside, Irvine, and Hawaii; one of the largest churches in America).
Key Initiatives	Founder of Harvest Crusades (since 1990; over 4.4 million attendees across U.S. events); Host of syndicated radio program A New Beginning (on 1,200+ stations worldwide) and TV program Harvest + Greg Laurie (on networks like Fox Business, Newsmax, and TBN).
Publications	Author of over 70 books, including Lost Boy (autobiography, 2008), Jesus Revolution (2023), Steve McQueen: The Salvation of an American Icon (2017), Billy Graham: The Man I Knew (2021), and Tell Someone (2016); General editor of the New Believer’s Bible.
Films & Media	Subject of Jesus Revolution (2023, starring Jonathan Roumie as Laurie); Producer/writer for Johnny Cash: The Redemption of an American Icon (2022), A Rush of Hope (2020, reached 2+ million viewers), Steve McQueen: American Icon (2017), and Lost Boy: The Next Chapter (2009 documentary).
Notable Achievements	Harvest Crusades events at venues like Angel Stadium, Dodger Stadium, and Madison Square Garden; “Harvest at Home” online services during COVID-19 (averaged 200,000+ weekly viewers); Participated in 2017 National Prayer Service under President Trump; Organized “The Year of Good News” movement (2017); Church affiliated with Southern Baptist Convention (2023) for revival goals.
Legacy	Known for dynamic evangelism, reaching millions through crusades, media, and books, he emphasizes spiritual revival and applying biblical principles to modern life.

This table captures the beats of a life poured out for others. Each line whispers revival.

The Power of Harvest Crusades: Reaching the Masses

Nothing defines Greg Laurie like Harvest Crusade. Started in 1990, these events pack stadiums. Angel Stadium. Dodger Stadium. Even Madison Square Garden. Over 9.8 million have come, live, and online. Free tickets. Live music. Bold preaching. Then, the altar call. Thousands respond.

Greg stands center stage, mic in hand. “Jesus died for you,” he says plainly. Stories flow of lost kids found, broken homes healed. Stats stun: Millions saved. One crusade alone saw 10,000 decisions. Harvest Crusades events blend fun and faith. Bands like For King & Country rock the crowd. Then, truth lands deep.

In 2012, Harvest America went national. Simulcasts hit churches everywhere. HD feeds. Internet streams. Over 700,000 professions of faith followed. Picture it: From Hawaii to New York, hearts turn. Greg’s vision? Wake America. “We need a great awakening,” he urges.

For evangelism fans, Outreach evangelism events shine here. Greg trains everyday folks. “Share your story,” he coaches. No pros needed. Just real talk. Greg Laurie Anaheim stadium crusade memories linger. Attendees say: “It changed me forever.”

What Makes a Crusade Work?

Big Reach: Stadiums hold thousands; streams add millions.
Simple Gospel: No jargon. Just “God loves you. Come home.”
Follow-Up: New believers get Bibles, mentors, and church invites.
Joy Factor: Worship sets the tone, upbeat, inviting.

These nights fuel Christian revival dreams. Greg’s not alone. Partners like Billy Graham’s team join. His board role there honors that link.

Greg Laurie’s Books: Wisdom for Daily Life

Words pour from Greg Laurie. Over 70 books grace the shelves. Each one is simple, practical. No thick tomes, just friends chatting about faith. Start with Every Day with Jesus (1993). Short devos for busy days. Then The Upside-Down Church (1999). It won a Gold Medallion. Tips for churches to flip worldly ways.

Lost Boy (2008) bears his soul. Childhood pain to purpose. Readers weep, then rise. Wrestling with God (2003) tackles doubts. “Question boldly,” he writes. After loss, Hope for Hurting Hearts (2013) heals. “Grief comes, but joy follows,” promises the page.

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Recent gems? Billy Graham: The Man I Knew (2023). Insider looks at a hero. Greg Laurie books top charts for a reason. They answer, “How do I live this?” Greg Laurie devotions, like daily reads, keep faith fresh. One fan shared: “His words got me through nights.”

He pens on prayer, marriage, and end times. Christian discipleship threads all. Want tools? Grab Evangelism Isn’t As Hard As You Think. Steps to share Jesus are easy as pie.

The Greg Laurie Podcast: Faith Meets Culture

Tune in to Greg Laurie’s podcast. The Greg Laurie Show airs fresh insights weekly. Broadcast on 1,200+ stations, it’s a lifeline. Topics hit home: Doubt. Culture wars. End times. “Why support Israel?” one episode asks. Guests like Frank Turek defend faith smartly.

Masculinity matters too. “Men, step up,” Greg calls. Fatherhood tips flow. Family episodes are warm. Talk with Marco Rubio blends politics and prayer. Christian worldview podcast at its best, biblical, bold.

For youth, apologetics shine. “Science vs. faith? No fight,” he assures. Deconstruction chats help Gen Z hold on. Faith and culture discussions unpack news with grace. Listeners ask: “What about the afterlife?” Greg answers clearly: “Heaven waits for believers.”

The Greg Laurie Show description nails it: For those empty inside, seeking true joy. Episodes end with invites. Visit Harvest.org for more². Follow on social. Streams hit millions. One show topped 200,000 downloads fast.

Favorite Episode Themes

Apologetics: “Is Christianity true?” with experts.
Family Life: Marriage advice from 50+ years wed.
Revival Stories: Jesus Movement tales that spark fire.
Cultural Takes: Gender, politics, viewed through Scripture.
Personal Growth: Prayer tips for busy souls.

Greg Laurie sermons often spin off here. Short, punchy, perfect for commutes.

Family and Personal Life

Behind the mic stands Cathe. Married since 1974, they laugh at early spats. “She kept me grounded,” Greg says. Two sons blessed them. Jonathan serves in ministry. Christopher’s 2008 loss lingers. “How did Greg Laurie lose his son?” searches ask. A foggy night. A sudden crash. Pain raw.

Yet grace grew. Grandkids are now five. Newport Beach home buzzes. “Family first,” Greg preaches. Episodes on Christian leadership stress dad duties. “Lead with love,” he models. Who is Greg Laurie married to? Cathe, partner in crime and crusade.

Faith shapes home. Daily prayers. The Bible reads. No, perfect, just real. This draws families to Greg Laurie ministry. See hurt, find help.

Lessons from His Home

Long Love: 51 years? Listen well, forgive fast.
Grief Grace: Loss teaches heaven’s hope.
Grand Joy: Kids remind us of God’s gifts.

How old is Greg Laurie? 72 in 2025. Still preaching strong.

Lights, Camera, Faith: Greg Laurie in Film

Silver screen calls Greg Laurie. Jesus Revolution (2023) stars him young. Kelsey Grammer as Chuck Smith. Jonathan Roumie as Lonnie. Box office hit: $52 million. It shows 1970s revival—baptisms in the Pacific. Greg consulted closely. “My story, but God’s glory,” he notes.

Other flicks? A Rush of Hope (2020). Evangelistic short. 2 million watched opening weekend. Lost Boy: The Next Chapter documents his youth. Steve McQueen: American Icon honors a star’s secret faith. Johnny Cash, too.

Greg Laurie movie ties spark curiosity. “Jesus Revolution Greg Laurie” trends. Films make history alive. Youth watch, wonder: Could revival hit again?

Film Impacts

Cultural Buzz: Oscars talk for faith flicks.
Personal Ties: Based on his book—authentic.
Evangelism Tool: Ends with salvation invites.
Youth Draw: Gen Z loves the 70s vibe.

Greg Laurie Jesus Revolution opens doors. Watch. Feel the wave.

Denomination and Beliefs: What Sets Greg Laurie Apart

Curious about roots? What denomination is Greg Laurie? Harvest joined the Southern Baptist Convention in 2022. Yet ecumenical heart beats wide. Calvary Chapel started shaping free-style worship. “Bible first,” he insists.

What religion is Greg Laurie? Evangelical core. Assurance of salvation key, know you’re saved. Not Calvinist strict, but grace-focused. “Is Greg Laurie a Calvinist?” Debates swirl, but he stresses the choice and sovereignty blend.

Topics bold: Israel support. End times watch. Cultural stands firm. Christianity and modern culture episodes guide. No compromise, all compassion.

Core Beliefs in Action

Bible Authority: Clear answers for life.
Evangelism Call: Share always.
Revival Hope: America can turn.
Grace Wins: For all who believe.

Bible teaching pastor is true. Simple, sure.

Net Worth and Legacy: Beyond the Numbers

“How much is Greg Laurie worth?” whispers float. Estimates hover $5-10 million. From books, speaking, and media. But heart? Poured into missions. Harvest aids orphans, Israel works. No flashy life, just faithful.

Legacy? Mega church pastor, yes, but soul-winner more. Over 1 million saved via crusades. Billions reached global. Honorary doctorates from Biola, Azusa Pacific. Chaplain for police 25+ years.

Greg Laurie net worth misses the point. Impact counts. “Live for eternity,” he teaches.

Measuring True Wealth

Souls Saved: Millions.
Books Sold: Millions more.
Lives Changed: Countless.

Evangelical Christianity thrives through him.

Modern Challenges: Greg Laurie on Culture and Faith

The world spins fast. Greg speaks in. Faith and culture discussions tackle it. Gender shifts? “God’s design holds.” Politics? “Vote values.” Israel? “Stand firm.” End times? “Signs point near.”

Podcast guests add punch. Andrew Klavan on laughs and truth. Levi Lusko on loss. Christian interviews spark thought. “Deconstruction? Rebuild on Rock,” he advises the youth.

COVID tested all. Online worship service saved the day. 1.3 million tuned in to Palm Sunday 2020. Trump tweeted Watch. Greg got the bug, prayed through. “Unity beats virus,” he called.

2025 sees him steady. Harvest + Greg Laurie TV hums. A New Beginning radio rolls. “The Year of Good News” lingers, gospel over gloom.

Tips for Tough Times

Pray Daily: Talk to God like a friend.
Read Scripture: Answers wait in pages.
Share Faith: Joy doubles when told.
Serve Others: Healing comes from giving.

Religious life advice from a pro.

Global Reach: Greg Laurie Beyond America

Though U.S.-rooted, waves lap worldwide. Harvest Crusades hit Canada, Australia. Radio in 1,200 stations spans. Online? Billions viewed clips. Christian evangelism resources are free at the site.

California evangelical churches base, but digital wings fly far. India outreaches. Africa streams. “Gospel knows no borders,” Greg beams.

For internationals, Greg Laurie devotional apps translate. Simple English fits all.

Worldwide Wins

Podcasts Global: Apps carry to phones everywhere.
Books Translated: Hope in tongues.
Virtual Events: Join from home.

Greg Laurie ministry circles the earth.

Why Greg Laurie Resonates: Meeting Deep Needs

People flock for reasons. The gospel message is explained clearly. “Jesus died, rose, saves.” No fluff. Real-life faith stories pull. His lost boy to leader arc inspires.

Seekers ask, “Why am I here?” He points to purpose. Doubters get Christian apologetics commentary. “Evidence abounds,” assures. Families find raising kids in a Christian home tools. Leaders grab revival maps.

Sunday sermon live feels like home. Bible commentary and application are practical. “Live it today,” he urges. Amid decline, hope rises. “Awakening comes,” promises.

Audience Pulls

Boomers/Gen X: Steady teaching comforts.
Millennials/Gen Z: Revival tales excite.
Seekers: Big questions answered kindly.

How old is pastor Greg Laurie? Age brings wisdom.

Quotes That Stick: Greg Laurie’s Words of Wisdom

His lines linger. “Evangelism is just one beggar telling another where to find bread.” Simple gold. In heaven: “No tears, all joy.” On pain: “God recycles our hurts into hope.”

From sermons: “Church isn’t a museum for saints, hospital for sinners.” Podcast zinger: “Culture shifts, but Christ stands.” Book nugget: “Wrestle doubts, win with truth.”

These spark shares. Greg Laurie quotes a trend. Use one today. Feel lifted.

Top Quotes to Live By

“God loves you infinitely more than you realize.”
“Revival starts with you and me.”
“Faith isn’t feeling—it’s fact.”
“Share Jesus like it’s your job.”
“Heaven’s better than any earth dream.”

Words that work.

Community and Giving: Joining the Harvest Family

Harvest isn’t just seats, it’s family. Volunteers run events. Small groups dig deep. Christian leadership training is free. Donate? Funds crusades, films, and aid.

“Give to grow,” Greg teaches. Partners back Israel trips, orphan care. Harvest Christian Fellowship welcomes all. Visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Laurie³ for full bio.

Engage via app. Comment sermons. Join prayer chains. “We’re in this together,” he says.

Ways to Connect

Attend Live: Riverside or streams.
Give Online: Support the mission.
Study Groups: Dive into devos.
Social Follow: Daily doses.

Greg Laurie live stream bridges gaps.

Looking Ahead: Greg Laurie’s Vision for Tomorrow

At 72, fire burns bright. “More crusades, more souls,” he plans. Films? More coming. Books? Stack grows. Podcast? Topics timely. Revival? “It’s time,” he insists.

What happened to Greg Laurie? Nothing stops him. Is Greg Laurie still alive? Yes, preaching on. Where does Greg Laurie preach? Harvest main, stadiums next.

How tall is Greg Laurie? 6 feet, stands tall in spirit. Where does Greg Laurie live? Newport Beach, heart in heaven.

Future? National awakening. Youth fire. Gospel global. Join the wave.

Hopes for Revival

Stadium Fills: Crowds come hungry.
Youth Rise: Gen Z leads.
Culture Turns: Faith shapes news.
Hearts Heal: Hope spreads wide.

Pastor Greg Laurie leads the charge.

FAQs

How old is Greg Laurie?

Greg Laurie is 72 years old as of 2025, having been born on December 10, 1952, in Long Beach, California. He remains active in ministry, leading Harvest Christian Fellowship and sharing Pastor Greg Laurie sermons worldwide.

How did Greg Laurie lose his son?

Greg Laurie lost his son Christopher, aged 33, in a tragic car accident on July 24, 2008, while Christopher worked at the church. The family grieved deeply, but Greg Laurie turned the pain into hope through his book Hope for Hurting Hearts and messages on assurance of salvation.

Where does Greg Laurie preach?

Greg Laurie preaches primarily at the main campus of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, with additional locations in Irvine, Orange County, and Hawaii. Services stream online via Greg Laurie live stream on **Harvest.org⁴**1½ firmware826

edb285itore weekly, reaching over 200,000 viewers.

Who is Greg Laurie married to?

Greg Laurie has been married to Cathe Laurie since 1974, after a three-year courtship that began in their youth group days. They live in Newport Beach, California, and have five grandchildren430gins set91080 ‘%’ Fivey celebrate over 50 years together in 2025.

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Is Greg Laurie still alive?

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What happened to Greg Laurie?

Nothing bad has happened to **Gregsep Saud—The prot福利 Nothing bad has happened to Greg Laurie; he continues thriving in ministry with no major personal setbacks_black flesta home

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Conclusion

In sum, Greg Laurie weaves pain to purpose, doubt to devotion. From chaotic kid to crusade king, his life shouts grace. Sermons stir, books build, events explode faith. Millions met Jesus through him. Church grows, podcast pulses, films flicker hope. For evangelicals, seekers, families, he’s a guide, friend, firelighter. His call? Live bold, love deep, share wide. Revival waits.

References

The Greg Laurie Show – LifeAudio – Podcast episodes, topics on culture, masculinity, apologetics, and revival. ↩︎
The Greg Laurie Show – LifeAudio – Podcast episodes, topics on culture, masculinity, apologetics, and revival. ↩︎
Harvest.org – Official church site with live streams, devotions, crusade info, and donation options. ↩︎
Greg Laurie – Wikipedia – Full biography, early life, ministry timeline, and media projects. ↩︎