“The legacy we leave behind for our children, grandchildren and this great nation is crucial. As I approach my 94th birthday, I realize this election could be my last,” said evangelist Billy Graham in an emailed message Thursday. “I believe it is vitally important that we cast our ballots for candidates who base their decisions on biblical principles and support the nation of Israel.”

Influential Christian leaders are increasingly speaking up and telling Christians to vote in the presidential election next month.

John Piper and Billy Graham are the latest figures to encourage believers not to sit this election out and to vote biblical values.

“The legacy we leave behind for our children, grandchildren and this great nation is crucial. As I approach my 94th birthday, I realize this election could be my last,” said evangelist Billy Graham in an emailed message Thursday. “I believe it is vitally important that we cast our ballots for candidates who base their decisions on biblical principles and support the nation of Israel.”

Like many Christian pastors, Graham urged voters to choose a candidate who will protect the sanctity of life and the biblical definition of marriage.

“Vote for biblical values this November 6, and pray with me that America will remain one nation under God,” the retired evangelist, who met with GOP candidate Mitt Romney last week, said. Graham met with President Obama in 2010.

Also rallying voters is Piper, pastor for Preaching & Vision at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis.

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