FBC Dallas controversial?

Tim Tebow is coming to First Baptist Dallas in connection with the dedication of their new building project. More about the building another time but right now the focus is on the views of the church and her pastor. Tebow, who has borne an amazing amount of scorn for simply living out his Christian faith in public, is now being urged to distance himself from First Dallas because the church has a reputation for … living out its faith in public. It really is OK to laugh at our critics sometimes I think.

FBC Dallas Pastor Robert Jeffress has been in the news over the past couple of years for his statements regarding homosexuality, Islam, Mormonism, and even Rick Perry. It’s no surprise that he is usually in disagreement with our elite opinion makers. And his statements are no surprise or scandal among those who believe that some behaviors and doctrines are not compatible with biblical Christianity. Frankly, I don’t think those who disagree with us are surprised either. It serves their purposes to act as if they are surprised. It serves their purposes to pretend they are giving Tim Tebow good advice that they know he will not take unless he is pressured by his employers. It’s posturing, another flail to beat Christians who believe what Christians believe.

Sometimes churches should be controversial. The gospel certainly is. Frankly, Robert Jeffress’ comments about the most controversial issues of the day are offensive to many because they are the gospel. We won’t win the media battle and we don’t need to. But we should stand with our churches and pastors who get pounded for preaching the truth.