When evangelist Franklin Graham decided to quit the GOP party and become an independent, Republicans became fearful that he might start a trend that would have Christian leaders and their congregation leaving the political party.

Graham explained that his decision to leave was spurred by a lot of things, and not just because of the decision of some members of the party to join the Democrats in continuing to provide funds for abortion service provider Planned Parenthood.

He said in no way does he hope to inspire other evangelical leaders to follow suit.

"Some fear I might be leading an exodus out of the Republican Party. That's not my goal at all," he shared on his Facebook page. "I'm not here to hurt the Republican Party or the Democratic Party – I want to help our nation. I want to stand on capitol steps and lead this nation state by state in praying for America. We'll be praying for our leaders and praying that God would give us politicians who will stand for Biblical values."

Graham hopes that more and more church leaders will get involved in running the country. He strongly believes that America needs a God-fearing leader who can help uplift moral values and put a stop to Christian persecution.

"I want to challenge Christians to get involved in the Democratic Party, the Republican Party, and all others to make a difference; to get engaged at every level and to vote. The Bible calls us to be salt and light in this world – it's time we got off the sidelines and got involved in actively working and praying to stop the moral decline of this great nation. I sure hope you will be there to stand with me in your state!" he said.

Graham is spearheading the Decision America Tour, which starts in Des Moines, Iowa on Tuesday, Jan. 5. There, he will be encouraging people to pray for America and make a wise vote.