Dallas Pastor Defends Inflammatory Sermon
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DALLAS (CBS11) - The pastor of one of the largest churches in Dallas, Rev. Robert Jeffress, finds himself being ridiculed by critics concerned about his sermons regarding Muslims and Islam.
"Islam is a false religion and inspired by Satan himself, who Jesus said came to steal, kill and destroy," Jeffress stated during a Sunday service at First Baptist Dallas, the large downtown Dallas church.
One critic labeled Jeffress' words "Darkness in the Heart of Dallas."
Dr. Robert Hunt, Director of Global Theological Education wrote about Rev. Jeffress' statements regarding Islam, calling the pastor's words not based in biblical following, and inappropriate for a city growing with religious diversity.
"There are negative consequences to saying these types of things about a large group of the citizens of Dallas. I think it's irresponsible," Hunt said.
"The majority of Muslims in the world are peace loving Muslims," Jeffress explained Tuesday.
The pastor of the 13,000 member church said he was not preaching hate, but citing Christian theology.
"If you listen to what I've said, it is intensely biblical.
Two Dallas community activists also criticized Jeffress, calling his words racist. Minister Dominique Alexander and Rev. Jeff Hood stood outside First Baptist Dallas Tuesday morning, calling
Jeffress' words racist and hate-filled against followers of Islam. "I am begging you, stop spouting the hate, stop with the comments. Let's learn to love again," Hood said.
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