Randy Gradishar, a former Denver Broncos linebacker and member of the renowned “Orange Crush” defense, was recently honored with induction into the National Football League Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024.
Throughout his illustrious career, Gradishar achieved numerous accolades including being named the 1978 Defensive Player of the Year, earning seven Pro Bowl appearances, securing two First Team All-Pro selections, and becoming the Broncos’ all-time leading tackler.
However, when expressing his gratitude during his induction speech, Gradishar took a moment to thank his longtime friend and two-time Heisman Trophy winner for more than just their achievements on the field.
Specifically, he thanked Griffin for inviting him to a gathering of a campus Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting, describing it as “the best invitation I’ve ever had.”
“Archie years ago invited me to an on-campus Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting Bible study during my senior year.”
Although he shared that he had attended church, he had not heard the gospel of salvation.
“That evening, in ’74, the gospel was explained in four simple truths. Truth one. God created mankind in his image, and that comes from Gen. 1:27. God loves us and offers a plan for our life.”
“Truth two. Mankind’s problems are from Romans 3:23. ‘That we’ve all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory.’ Therefore we cannot know and experience God’s love and plan for our lives. Romans 6:23. ‘For the wages of sin is death’ our spiritual death.”
“Truth No. 3. God made a way. John 3:16. ‘That God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.’”
“Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, the darkest day in history, and Jesus’ resurrection earned Jesus the right to proclaim. ‘I am the way, the truth and the light,’ and ‘No one comes to the Father but through Me.’”
“And the fourth truth, salvation requires turning to God, repent of our sins, accept His forgiveness, and ask Jesus by faith to be your personal Lord and Savior. This is the only way to be right with God and to live out His plans for our life, not ours.”
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