Tim LaHaye and Beverly LaHaye were one of the most influential Christian couples of the 20th century. Together, they shaped conversations about family, faith, prophecy, and culture. Their work in ministry, writing, and activism continues to inspire believers today.
A Strong Beginning
Tim LaHaye was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1926. His early life was shaped by hardship when his father died when Tim was just nine years old. A sermon about heaven gave him comfort, and that moment stayed with him for life. After serving as an Air Force machine-gunner during World War II, he returned home with a clear sense of purpose.
He met Beverly Davenport at Bob Jones University, and they married in 1947. Their marriage became the center of their ministry. Beverly later said that her role as a wife and mother taught her lessons about faith, humility, and leadership that God would use in big ways.
Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate. – Mark 10:9
Tim’s Ministry and Books
Tim LaHaye pastored Scott Memorial Baptist Church in San Diego for nearly 25 years. His preaching style was bold and clear, focusing on the authority of Scripture and the hope of Christ’s return.
He went on to write over 85 books. His most famous work, co-authored with Jerry Jenkins, was the Left Behind series. These novels brought Bible prophecy to life for millions of readers and sold more than 65 million copies worldwide.
Tim also taught about marriage, family, and Christian living. One of his most popular books with Beverly was The Act of Marriage, which encouraged couples to embrace love and intimacy as God designed.
Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is more delightful than wine. – Song of Solomon 1:2
Beverly’s Leadership
Beverly LaHaye became a leading voice for Christian women. In 1979, she founded Concerned Women for America (CWA), a public policy group that sought to represent biblical values in culture and government. She believed women of faith needed a strong voice in society.
Through her work, she encouraged women to embrace their God-given roles while also being active in shaping the world around them.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. – Proverbs 31:26
A Legacy of Faith
Together, Tim and Beverly LaHaye showed what it looked like to live with a deep commitment to Christ. Their combined work touched millions—through novels, teaching, activism, and ministry. They demonstrated the power of a marriage built on Scripture and dedicated to serving God.
Chronological Summary of Tim LaHaye’s Life
- 1926 – Born in Detroit, Michigan
- 1944–1945 – Served as an Air Force machine-gunner in World War II
- 1947 – Married Beverly Davenport
- 1956–1981 – Pastored Scott Memorial Baptist Church in San Diego
- 1976 – Co-wrote The Act of Marriage with Beverly
- 1979 – Beverly founded Concerned Women for America
- 1995–2007 – Co-authored the Left Behind series with Jerry Jenkins
- 2016 – Passed away at age 90
