Robert Jeffress
NFL quarterback Tim Tebow has agreed to speak at First Baptist Church of Dallas in April.
First Baptist, of course, is led by virulently anti-gay pastor Robert Jeffress, whose “Why Gay is Not OK” sermon in 2008 sparked LGBT protests outside the church. Indeed, Jeffress’ homophobic credentials are too long to list here, but several media outlets reporting on Tebow’s appearance have picked up this passage from one of Jeffress’ sermons last July:
“There are a disproportionate amount of assaults against children by homosexuals than by heterosexuals, you can’t deny that,” Jeffress said. “And the reason is very clear: Homosexuality is perverse, it represents a degradation of a person’s mind and if a person will sink that low and there are no restraints from God’s law, then there is no telling to whatever sins he will commit as well.”
Tebow, meanwhile, has become well known for revolting public displays of his Christian faith but thus far has steered clear of addressing the subject of homosexuality. However, his decision to speak at a church led by Jeffress speaks volumes.
It’s hardly surprising to see Tebow — the shame of my alma mater — seeking fame and fortune as a religious hoaxster, given that his football career is on the rocks. And it only seems fitting that he’s decided to pay a visit to Jeffress, because they both make our gaydar go off uncontrollably.
UPDATE: There’s now a petition calling for Tebow to cancel his appearance at First Baptist. Sign it by going here.
