Phil Robertson Underfire: The Trials of a Secular World

GLAAD, and others, respond to Phil Robertson’s [Duck Commander] comments.

Following Phil Robertson’s comments, in an interview for GQ magazine, concerning his Bible-based views on the sinfulness of homosexuality, the network that carries the reality show in which he stars, pulled him from the show for an indefinite period of time. Also, reactions poured in from several pro-gay/lesbian groups.

One group, GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) led the attack. GLAAD spokesperson Wilson Cruz said, “Phil and his family claim to be Christian, but Phil's lies about an entire community fly in the face of what true Christians believe”. Here is someone who advocates rebellion against God, and His standards, accusing Mr. Robertson of lying and not understanding what it means to be a ‘true’ Christian.

GLAAD offered A&E a pat on the back by saying, “By taking quick action and removing Robertson from future filming, A&E has sent a strong message that discrimination is neither a Christian nor an American value.” Here we once again have a group that rejects God’s standard and promotes sinful behavior expressing its opinion on how a ‘true’ Christian should behave. Christians do not think discrimination is a good thing. However, neither is reverse discrimination. GLAAD wants no one to voice the opinion that they are wrong, but they expect full freedom to express their opinion that others are wrong.

Mr. Cruz said of Phil Robertson, “He clearly knows nothing about gay people or the majority of Louisianans -- and Americans -- who support legal recognition for loving and committed gay and lesbian couples. Phil's decision to push vile and extreme stereotypes is a stain on A&E and his sponsors, who now need to re-examine their ties to someone with such public disdain for LGBT people and families.” Even if Mr. Robertson were ignorant of the things Cruz mentions, although that is highly doubtful, Phil Robertson knows the Bible, he knows the Savior of the world personally, and he has dedicated his life, long before he was a television personality, to serving God and spreading His Word. Part of God’s Word contains the moral and behavioral standards that God requires of us; these standards say that homosexual behavior is sin. Mr. Robertson believes, as do I, that the Bible is the authority for all human beings, whether some accept that authority or reject it. He also believes, as do I, that would be unloving to not share the biblical warnings and simply set back and watch people speed toward an eternity of misery and separation from God’s love.

Nevertheless, Mr. Cruz (GLAAD) responded to A&E's actions against Mr. Robertson with this comment, “What's clear is that such hateful anti-gay comments are unacceptable to fans, viewers, and networks alike.” Here we have a pro-gay/lesbian organization speaking as if they represent everyone. However, many Christians find Mr. Robertson’s comments to be biblically based and factual. Throughout the Bible, God’s people have been God’s voice to humanity. It is through God’s people that His warnings are issued, guidance is given, the good news of salvation is spread, and God’s love is known. There are many who find Mr. Robertson’s comments, not just acceptable, but a much needed corrective in this permissive culture we live in.

Double standards, again.

A common reaction from the gay and lesbian community is that Christians have a right to their beliefs and their opinions, but they should keep those beliefs and opinions at home and out of the public arena. However, the same could be said of the gay and lesbian agenda which is paraded more and more often in all types of media; movies, television, magazines, etc. Why should one set beliefs be forced into hiding while its opposition expects free reign? Oddly enough, the gay/lesbian folk attempt to stand on the right of free expression (for them) while trying to squelch the free expression of anyone who disagrees with them. Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal got it right when he said, “The politically correct crowd is tolerant of all viewpoints, except those they disagree with.” When it comes to free speech, their attitude seems to be ‘anything goes’…except Christianity.

When will the tired charge of “intolerance” or “hate”, which is merely used to vilify ones opponents, be retired and be replaced with some honest discussion? More and more, discussion and debate is being ignored in favor of name-calling, straw man arguments, and shouting. It seems like the older this nation gets, the more childish our behavior becomes.

Supporting A&E or not.

We may glean a little insight concerning the strong reaction by Arts and Entertainment to Phil Robertson’s statements when we read these words from a statement from the A&E network, “[Phil Robertson’s] personal views in no way reflect those of A&E Networks, who have always been strong supporters and champions of the LGBT community”. A&E issued this statement along with their announcement that Mr. Robertson has been put, “…under hiatus from filming indefinitely.” As followers of Christ, we should reexamine our support of a network that so publically and vocally promotes and supports something that God calls sin.

We must ask ourselves the question, “How would we react to an organization that is attempting to promote and legalize adultery?” Or murder, or lying, or drunkenness? Each of these sins are listed alongside the sin of homosexuality. And, the Bible says that those who continue willfully engaging in these sins will find themselves outside the Kingdom of God on judgment day. Phil Robertson did a loving thing by pointing this out.

Conclusion

Every follower of Jesus Christ must decide where they stand on this issue. Gay and lesbian groups continue to push for the world to accept their lifestyle as normal and good. The Bible says that it is sin. It certainly is not the only sin, it may not even be the worst sin, and every Christian was a slave to sin before they were saved. Therefore, the believer’s duty is to stand unwavering against the sin while loving the one who is sinning by sharing with them the love and good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Check out another Duck Dynasty post from author Robert Driskell:  Duck Dynasty is safe for Christians

Resources- ESV Holy Bible, Youtube, photo credit: aneil4lom via photopin cc

Guest Post By: Robert Driskell

Robert received a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Pastoral Ministries and Biblical Studies from Mid-America Christian University in 1995. He is convinced that the hope of the world lies in men and women having a saving relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. Robert believes that the Bible contains the truth that God wants us to base our lives upon. He is passionate about understanding the Bible and helping others do the same. Only when one views life through the lens of the Bible can one arrive at a worldview based on truth. Robert is happily married and lives in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.