May 19, 2013
  • Tim Tebow cancels Dallas church speech after pastor's past comes to light

    Tim Tebow #15 of the New York Jets

    Photo credit: Tim Tebow #15 of the New York Jets (Getty Images)

    Tim Tebow backed out of a Dallas church speech Thursday after learning of its pastor's history of controversial remarks.

    The Jets backup QB canceled his April 28 speech at First Baptist Church of Dallas because its pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress, has reportedly spoken out vehemently against Muslims, Jews, Mormons and homosexuals.

    "While I was looking forward to sharing a message of hope and Christ's unconditional love with the faithful members of the historic First Baptist Church of Dallas in April," he tweeted, "due to new information that has been brought to my attention, I have decided to cancel my upcoming appearance."

    He added: "I will continue to use the platform God has blessed me with to bring Faith, Hope and Love to all those needing a brighter day. Thank you for all of your love and support. God Bless!"

    Jeffress has said that Islam "promoted pedophilia" and that "Catholics, Hindus, Buddhists and virtually everyone else" are members of cults, according to TMZ.com.

    In response to Tebow's cancellation, the church said it is "saddened that Mr. Tebow felt pressure to back out of his long-planned commitment from numerous New York and national sports and news media who grossly misrepresented past comments made by our pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress, specifically related to issues of homosexuality and AIDS, as well as Judaism."

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