In the history of modern Christian evangelism, few partnerships have had as lasting an impact as that of John Starnes and Jimmy Swaggart. Their collaboration throughout the 1980s and 1990s became a cornerstone of global gospel outreach, combining Swaggart’s dynamic preaching with Starnes’ anointed music ministry. Together, they brought the message of Jesus Christ to millions, creating spiritual moments that continue to resonate with believers today.
This article explores the powerful partnership between these two influential figures, the scope of their ministry work, and how their combined talents helped shape international gospel outreach.
The Beginning of a Spirit-Led Collaboration
John Starnes joined Jimmy Swaggart Ministries (JSM) during a time of immense growth in global evangelism. Based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Swaggart had already built a large following through televangelism, crusades, and international outreach. When Starnes came on board, his voice and spirit-filled delivery quickly became a key element of the ministry’s worship experience.
The partnership was grounded in a shared mission: to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ with sincerity, boldness, and excellence. Starnes’ presence on stage during Swaggart’s televised services added emotional depth to the message, often preparing hearts for the sermon through music.
The Role of Music in Swaggart’s Ministry
Jimmy Swaggart has always emphasized the power of worship in his services. His televised programs featured not only preaching but also extended times of live music, worship, and congregational participation. In this format, John Starnes became a vital worship leader and soloist, offering vocal performances that brought thousands to tears and spiritual reflection.
Signature songs performed by Starnes during these events included:
- “Midnight Cry”
- “The Galilean”
- “I’ve Just Seen Jesus”
- “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
These performances were broadcast globally and later distributed on VHS, CD, and DVD, making his ministry part of countless worship services in homes and churches around the world.
Expanding the Reach: Global Crusades and Tours
In addition to televised services, Swaggart’s ministry held international crusades, drawing massive crowds from countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Starnes traveled with the team as both a featured vocalist and ministry pilot, helping to transport staff and equipment for large-scale outreach events.
Together, Swaggart and Starnes ministered to:
- Tens of thousands in stadium revivals
- Viewers across multiple continents via satellite TV
- Communities in need of spiritual awakening and renewal
This outreach helped expand the visibility of American gospel music and charismatic preaching in regions where evangelical Christianity was still emerging.
A Ministry Built on Shared Conviction
While Jimmy Swaggart’s role focused on preaching and biblical teaching, John Starnes’ musical ministry operated as both introduction and response. His songs often set the tone for sermons, reinforcing theological themes and softening hearts.
The pair shared key convictions:
- A belief in salvation through Jesus Christ alone
- The power of music to convict, comfort, and inspire
- An unwavering commitment to Spirit-led ministry
- A global vision for soul-winning and outreach
Their ministries were deeply interwoven, and for many viewers, they were inseparable elements of the same spiritual experience.
Influence on the Gospel Community
John Starnes’ work with Jimmy Swaggart helped him rise to prominence not only as a singer but also as a respected figure in Christian music. The partnership inspired many future gospel artists who admired:
- Starnes’ vocal excellence and humility
- Swaggart’s bold preaching and evangelistic reach
- The seamless integration of word and worship
Together, they modeled a form of collaborative ministry that emphasized both biblical truth and emotional engagement—two elements that continue to shape church services today.
Navigating Transition and Personal Calling
As the years passed, John Starnes eventually stepped away from frequent touring with JSM. While still respectful of the ministry’s work, he felt called to develop his own path, focusing on:
- Solo gospel recordings
- Prison ministry and outreach
- Occasional performances and church events
- Personal mentoring and spiritual encouragement
Jimmy Swaggart Ministries continued to grow with new musicians and media initiatives, while Starnes quietly nurtured grassroots ministry efforts, often away from public platforms.
Legacy of a Spiritual Partnership
Though no longer touring together regularly, the legacy of John Starnes and Jimmy Swaggart’s partnership remains significant. Their work:
- Reached millions of people across language and cultural barriers
- Produced worship moments still replayed in churches and homes
- Paved the way for future ministries to combine music and message effectively
- Demonstrated how collaborative service can multiply spiritual impact
Even today, archived broadcasts featuring both men are cherished by longtime viewers, and their contributions are referenced in gospel music history and evangelical media archives.
Where They Are Now (2025)
John Starnes
As of 2025, John Starnes is alive and living in Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife Teresa. He continues to serve in Christian outreach, particularly prison ministry, and makes occasional appearances at worship events. Though largely removed from the spotlight, he remains a deeply respected figure in gospel music.
Jimmy Swaggart
Jimmy Swaggart continues to lead Family Worship Center and his ministry broadcast network. Now in his late 80s, he remains active in preaching, recording, and leading worship services in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Both men continue their work in different spheres, but their earlier partnership laid a foundation that still influences gospel outreach worldwide.
Conclusion: A Kingdom Collaboration That Endures
The partnership between John Starnes and Jimmy Swaggart was more than a working relationship—it was a spiritual alignment that brought together powerful preaching and passionate worship. Together, they demonstrated the transformative power of gospel outreach, showing how voice and message can lead people into profound encounters with God.
Their time on global stages may be behind them, but the impact of their ministry continues to echo in churches, ministries, and personal testimonies around the world. For those who experienced their joint ministry, it was nothing short of a divine collaboration—anointed, purposeful, and unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did John Starnes sing regularly with Jimmy Swaggart?
Yes. During the 1980s and 1990s, he was a featured soloist in Jimmy Swaggart’s televised services and international crusades.
What songs is John Starnes known for from the Swaggart era?
Some of his most beloved songs include “Midnight Cry,” “The Galilean,” and “I’ve Just Seen Jesus.”
Do they still work together today?
No, not actively. Starnes has pursued a quieter form of ministry, while Swaggart continues leading Family Worship Center.
How did their ministry partnership impact global evangelism?
Their combined talents helped spread gospel messages to millions across television, radio, and live events worldwide.
Where is John Starnes now?
He lives in Nashville, Tennessee, and continues to serve in Christian outreach, especially in prison ministry and occasional worship events.