Televangelist Jim Bakker, known for his controversial past and longstanding presence in Christian media, recently made an emotional appeal to his viewers, warning that his ministry could collapse without a $1 million influx. The 85-year-old Bakker, speaking on his show on May 6, said that declining donations and rising debt threaten not only the ministry but also his own home.

During the episode of “The Jim Bakker Show,” Bakker, joined by co-hosts Mondo De La Vega and Ricky Bakker, framed his plea within the context of biblical End Times prophecies. Bakker, who has faced multiple health challenges in recent years, including strokes, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We’re in the End Times. … We’re at the end.”

Bakker explained that his ministry’s financial struggles stem from declining contributions. “A lot of people have not been giving anymore because it’s perilous times,” he said. Despite his struggles, Bakker remains optimistic, expressing faith that God would provide through the generosity of his audience.

“I believe if everyone who watches this program will give a thousand dollars, we’ll be able to pay our bills and stay on the air,” Bakker said. He noted that he has not taken a salary in over four decades and now lives off his Social Security check. “What we need is a miracle, and it’s gonna happen if a thousand people give a thousand dollars.”

Bakker also shared that if the ministry were to fold, he would lose his home. “If they foreclose on this ministry, they will take my house too, so I will be on the street,” he said. Despite the dire warning, he maintained his faith, quoting Scripture: “I’ve never seen the righteous forsaken or His seed out begging for bread.”

Jim Bakker’s appeal comes after decades of both prominence and scandal. In the 1980s, he led the PTL Ministry, which included a TV network and the Heritage USA resort. However, his career was marred by a 1989 conviction for fraud, including charges of bilking followers out of millions and using ministry funds for personal luxuries. Bakker served nearly five years in prison before being released in 1994.

Since then, Bakker has rebranded himself as a voice for End Times preparation, selling survival products and preaching about biblical prophecies. In the recent episode, he linked global events to Matthew 24, reinforcing his message that the End Times are upon us.

Despite his struggles and past controversies, Bakker continues to appeal to his audience for support. “That’s why it’s important that you obey God,” he said. “I need about a thousand people who will give right now. Some may not be able to give $1,000, but you can give $100. That’s right, the seed. I want you to mail it in right now.”

While some may question Bakker’s methods or message, his appeal highlights the challenges faced by longstanding ministries when financial support dwindles. As Bakker himself put it, “God doesn’t have an end, He’s the same yesterday, today and forever.”