GAINESVILLE, Ga.,— Larry Burkett, founder of Christian Financial Concepts passed away after years of battling cancer and heart problems, July 4, at the age of 64.
Burkett founded CFC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching biblically based financial management, at 1976 in the basement of his suburban Atlanta home. The group offered practical teachings about money that have had a profound impact on countless individuals, families, and the church at large.
"Our money and possessions don't belong to us; they belong to God," said Burkett, who spent much of his life teaching Christians how to manage their finances according to the will of God. "God has given us the authority to be stewards of our money and possessions, and the responsibility to faithfully manage them according to the principles in the Bible."
By 2000, CFC, with over 130 employees, merged with Howard Dayton’s Crown Ministries to form Crown Financial Ministries; CFM is the world’s leader in financial ministry.
Burkett’s partner, Dayton commented, "We will miss Larry terribly-his friendship, his wisdom, his stories, his passion for Crown, his humor, and most of all His heart for Christ and people."
"... Our huge loss is balanced by the joy of knowing that Larry, after years of serving His Lord (often battling serious health issues) is now face to face with Him."
In addition to chairing the executive board of CFM, Burkett also hosted several nationally syndicated radio programs including Money Matters, How to Manage Your Money, and MoneyWatch. A prolific writer, he also authored more than 70 books that have sold more than 12 million copies and wrote columns for Christianity Today and Baptist Press.
Before his death, Burkett said there is no reason to fear death. "God wants us to live life to the fullest, but fear will cripple us. . . . If there are circumstances that cause you to live in fear, you can't possibly enjoy your life on this earth no matter how healthy you are or how short or long your life may be. So, if you know that your final destination is Heaven, then learn to live your life here to the fullest."
Burkett is now survived by his wife of 44 years, Judy, their four children - Allen, Danny, Kim, and Todd - and nine grandchildren.
