Ken Isaacs of Samaritan's Purse talks with Wayne Shepherd about his calling to meeting humanitarian needs around the world in the name of Christ. (click for more...)

Ken is Vice-President of Programs and Government Relations at Samaritan's Purse, and the author of Running to the Fire, Helping in Jesus' Name.

Interview Notes:

Former water well driller, went as a volunteer to West Africa (1985).

• Felt called by God to serve internationally.
• Connection with Franklin Graham led to work in Ethiopia with his family under difficult conditions (communist govt., war).
• Experience deepened faith and reliance on God.
• At 73, still actively serving—“Moses never retired.”
• Loves the work, considers it God’s calling.
• Finds purpose and energy in “running to the fire”—meeting needs in crises.
• Samaritan’s Purse Ministry:
  • 17–18 international offices, ~4,000 staff.Focus on war zones, famine areas, disaster zones (Israel, Syria, Yemen, Sudan, South Sudan, Congo, Niger, Liberia, Colombia, etc.).
  • Staff chosen for faith commitment and skills (body of Christ with diverse roles).
  • All service explicitly in Jesus’ name—aid is unconditional.
  • Philosophy:
  • Meeting urgent needs (food, water, shelter, medicine) creates a platform for witness.
  • Work must be done with excellence; poor quality undermines witness.
  • Reputation sought: compassionate, loving, present in people’s greatest need
  • Partnerships:
  • Works with local churches and Christian organizations.
  • Example: Mission Eurasia in Ukraine; 1,600 churches partnered there.
  • Seeks partners passionate about proclaiming Christ.
  • Global Needs & Focus:
  • Sudan: Severe civil war, famine, displacement (12 million displaced, 150,000 killed).
  • Gaza: Food distribution, partnerships with local groups despite conflict.
  • Syria: Healthcare, new opportunities with emerging governance.
  • Emphasis: most crises are politically driven, not natural disasters.
  • Funding & Resources:
  • Less than 5% of support from US govt.
  • $530B in US private giving vs. $43B government aid (2023).
  • Independence from government allows freedom and faith-based work.
  • Scriptural Foundation:
  • Luke 10 (Good Samaritan) – “Go and do likewise.”
  • Matthew 24 – signs of the end times: wars, famines, earthquakes; Isaacs sees Samaritan’s Purse as positioned for these times.
  • Encouragement to Listeners:
  • Stay generous; pray for leaders worldwide.
  • Follow updates at samaritanspurse.org.
  • Remember ultimate goal: share Christ’s love through compassionate action.

NEXT WEEK: Winfred Neely

Send your support for FIRST PERSON to the Far East Broadcasting Company:
FEBC National Processing Center
Far East Broadcasting Company
P.O. Box 6020
Albert Lea, MN 56007

Please mention FIRST PERSON when you give. Thank you!