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ESPN's Chris Broussard Under Fire, But Says "God Is Being Glorified"

In the wake of sports analyst Chris Broussard’s public declaration that homosexuality isn’t supported by Scripture, gay rights advocates are calling for him to be fired or at least suspended from ESPN. But Broussard said in a national prayer teleconference late last week that even though he is getting a lot of hate, “God is being glorified” in the controversy. 

Broussard’s declaration was prompted by free agent NBA player Jason Collins’ revelation in Sports Illustrated that he is gay. Broussard appeared on ESPN’s “Outside the Lines” and said that being gay was “open rebellion to God,” as was adultery and premarital sex.

Broussard said, according to The Christian Post, that he is receiving a great deal of support from NBA players and Christians from around the world. “I’ve had several big name pastors call me or tweet in support of me. I’ve had NBA players and coaches and management call me in support,” he said.

“I believe God is getting all the glory from this and I’ve been resting on the Scriptures, ‘blessed are you when you are persecuted for righteousness sake.’ So I know this is a blessing,” said Broussard. He also said he hoped that his boldness encourages other Christians to be bold about their faith.

Collins has since explained that his own Christian faith is important to him. “My parents instilled Christian values in me. They taught Sunday school, and I enjoyed lending a hand. I take the teachings of Jesus seriously, particularly the ones that touch on tolerance and understanding.”

ESPN released a statement as reported by CBS News that ESPN “regrets” Broussard’s comments and the network is fully committed to diversity.: “We regret that a respectful discussion of personal viewpoints became a distraction.”

Broussard then clarified his own views on Twitter, saying he offered his personal opinion as it relates to Christianity, “a point of view that I have expressed publicly before. I realize that some people disagree with my opinion and I accept and respect that. As has been the case in the past, my beliefs have not and will not impact my ability to report on the NBA. I believe Jason Collins displayed bravery with his announcement today and I have no objection to him or anyone else playing in the NBA.”