Former NFL star says Denver QB should "put down the boldness in regards to the words"
When former quarterback Kurt Warner became an overnight sensation for the St. Louis Rams in the late 1990s, he rubbed a few people the wrong way for his outspoken Christian faith. He says he learned the hard way that he should've been more sparing with his religious rhetoric, and that he should've simply let his actions do most of the talking.
Now he's got the same advice for Tim Tebow, the rising star QB for the Denver Broncos who is also outspoken about his Christian faith. In an interview with the Arizona Republic, Warner said that Tebow should tone it down a bit -- maybe even on the "Tebowing."
"You can't help but cheer for a guy like that," Warner told the newspaper. "But I'd tell him, 'Put down the boldness in regards to the words, and keep living the way you're living. Let your teammates do the talking for you. Let them cheer on your testimony.'
"I know what he's going through, and I know what he wants to accomplish, but I don't want anybody to become calloused toward Tim because they don't understand him, or are not fully aware of who he is. And you're starting to see that a little bit."
Tebow is getting more attention than usual since he became the Broncos' starting quarterback last month. Denver was 1-4 when Tebow became the starter, and they've won five of six games since with him at the helm. With that, though, has come more scrutiny -- and not just about his football skills. Former Broncos quarterback Jake Plummer said recently that he wished Tebow would "just shut up after a game. . . . I think that when he accepts the fact that we know that he loves Jesus Christ, then I think I’ll like him a little better. I don’t hate him because of that, I just would rather not have to hear that every time he takes a good snap or makes a good handoff.”
Warner was more diplomatic, but essentially had the same message: Chill out on the God talk. And he speaks from experience: After leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory, Warner thanked Jesus on national TV, and kept doing so for some time afterward. Till he learned his own lesson, which he now imparts to Tebow.
"There's almost a faith cliche, where (athletes) come out and say, 'I want to thank my Lord and savior,' " Warner told The Republic. "As soon as you say that, the guard goes up, the walls go up, and I came to realize you have to be more strategic.
"The greatest impact you can have on people is never what you say, but how you live. When you speak and represent the person of Jesus Christ in all actions of your life, people are drawn to that. You set the standard with your actions. The words can come after."
(photo by Jeffrey Beall)
Posted by Mark Moring on November 30, 2011 6:01PM
Comments
Kurt Warner did it his way. He should be quiet and let Tim tebow do it his way. Hopefully, they both do it God's way. Keep giving God the Glory, Tebow!
Posted by: Rob at November 30, 2011
I was extremely disappointed in Kurt Warner's "advice" to Tim Tebow. Kurt as a Christian knows that we are not to be ashamed of the Gospel. Kurt knows that we must be hot or cold or God will spew you out. Kurt knows that if Jesus is lifted up that He will draw all men to him. Kurt knows that we are to Bless the Lord at ALL TIMES and his praise is to continually be in our mouth. Kurt knows that David danced and was admonished for it...but we are to praise him with abandon. Kurt knows that because Christians lift up the name of Jesus and openly praise him we may face those who don't like us, talk about us, persecute us. Keep praising God Tim!
Posted by: Trinity15 at November 30, 2011
All these has beens like Elway and Warner need to shut up and let Tim Tebow do it the way he's doing it, since it's working. Tebow won two (2) NCAA titles, a Heisman as a sophomore, and is off to a better start than either of these guys in the NFL. Don't listen to them Tim, like all of your critics they're just jealous, of who you are as a person more than anything.
Posted by: Blunt at November 30, 2011
I live in Denver and watch the back and forth first hand.
He is the real deal, but he has nothing to prove at this point except to back up his words with action.
Now that everyone knows, he can just concentrate on living honorably. That's the best convincer of all
Posted by: David @ Red Letter Believers at December 1, 2011
If Kurt Warner has ought with a brother, he needs to go to him privately not criticize him publicly to the lost world. If Tebow wasn't an outspoken Christian everyone would be talking about how great it is that he's overcoming adversity. Jesus said, "Marvel not if the world hate you!" Keep standing Tim!
Posted by: Nathan at December 1, 2011
Matthew 5: 14 - 15
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Posted by: J. Lyons at December 1, 2011
I think it takes alot of courage to speak out about your faith like Tim Tebow does & all true Christians should be more outspoken about our faith. I think we could all learn from him in regards to both taking the talk & walking the walk!
Posted by: Kristi Duggan at December 1, 2011
I'm very disappointed in what Warner says in that article. Frankly, I don't see any biblical support for "don't talk about your faith, just do good works." Hasn't that line of thinking led to Christ-less christianity practiced by many mainline churches?
People seem to forget that we talk about what we love. If we love football, we talk about football. IF we love our wife, we talk about our wife. If we love God, then we should talk about Him as much as we possibly can. I would argue that not doing so means you don't really love God all that much.
Posted by: Chris Blackstone at December 1, 2011
Let's be clear: Kurt Warner was not "criticizing" Tebow. He was giving him advice, as someone who has been there, of what he considers a better way to witness. Whether he's right or wrong, I have no idea, but let's not overstate our case.
Posted by: Jeff Berger at December 1, 2011
can totally see both sides of this ...
Posted by: Holly at December 1, 2011
I too am disappointed in the advice Kurt Warner would give Tebow. Kurt is basically saying "Preach the Gospel and if necessary use words". That's like saying Take a Shower and if necessary use water...
Posted by: Kenny at December 1, 2011
The thing that came to my mind when I read this article is that Tim Tebow is not a fan of Jesus Christ. He is a all out FOLLOWER! If we all would show a little more boldness in our faith then the world would have to learn to deal with it. The same way that we as followers have to deal with all the unrighteousness around us every day. Gods blessings to you Tim Tebow! I pray that you will continue your boldness regarding your faith!!!
Posted by: Kerry Mossner at December 1, 2011
The problem with Tebow, or with any sports figure, continually publicly connecting his faith to his success or play on the field is that there isn't a necessary immediate connection between them. It's terrifically easy to say a prayer of thanks for a success - - when Tebow starts "Tebowing" after every sack or "pick six" (an interception run back for a touchdown), other have the opportunity to see him as tying his own success to God's blessing. I'm not yet convinced God cares whether Tebow leads his team to a touchdown or a loss. Is God now a Broncos fan?
Posted by: Sam at December 1, 2011
Warner is right. Tebow is a good and godly young man, but "going through the motions" when something good happens on the field is not a testimony, it's a Christian cliche. To be fully biblical, God should be honored and thanked "in all things," for fumbles and interceptions, too. Tim's motions makes Christians feel good about him, but likely does little to advance the gospel or draw nonbelievers to Christ.
Tim should let his skills, and frankly the skills of the rest of his team who help make the good things happen that he gives glory to God for, speak for themselves. God is honored most when Tim is a good steward of the skills God has given him, and a good model to the players on the team who follow him. Forcing Christ into every good play is not the way. Let his testimony come off the field, from serving others and sharing his advantages with the less advantaged. That will be his Christian legacy.
Tebowing is a passing (hopefully very quickly) fad. It's an Internet meme, not a ministry. We need less "flash faith" and more faithshaped living, both from Christian athletes who, by God's grace, make it to the top, and from Christians who unintentionally turn them into idols of evangelicalism.
Tim, you should listen to Kurt. It's good and godly counsel.
Posted by: Clayton at December 1, 2011
"Preach the Gospel at all times; if necessary use words." This isn't the same as saying "Take a shower; if necessary use water." What St. Francis was talking about was teaching by example, the most effective method. How many good talkers have been brought low by their actions which are contrary to their preaching? I won't name names, but I doubt I have to.
Posted by: dg at December 1, 2011
I like the idea of Tim Tebow sharing is faith when it is appropriate and believe God wants Tim to endorse Love Sportswear. Sure Tim wants to talk about Christ and make HIm known... He knows Jesus is the only way... and the platform of a Christian sportswear company would be the perfect place for Tim and other Christians to display their faith and honor God.
Posted by: Charles Hubbard at December 1, 2011
The biggest mistake here is Kurt Warner giving his advice via the secual media instead of contacting Tim Tebow to speak to him privately and confidentially as the Bible instructs.
Posted by: Ken Richards at December 1, 2011
Virtue is the mean between extremes. It's all about balance. You don't witness to Christ by mashing Him in peoples' faces, nor to you witness to Him by never letting a soul outside the church building know you're His disciple. Balance, think big picture, long haul, not flash in a pan.
Posted by: Mike at December 1, 2011
Clayton is SO right. I had the same thot. You stated it well.
Talk and gestures are cheap. The rub comes in living a life that consistently backs them up.
I LIKE Tebow. I LOVE it when he leads the Broncos to victory. I know he has the best of intentions, but he is young and inexperienced. Perhaps Warner would have been wise to make his suggestions directly to Tebow. Even so, he HAS been there. He is older and wiser in the faith. I hope Tebow has a teachable spirit --which is a biblical injunction. He'd do well to prayfully consider the advice.
Acknowledging God for one's talents and His helping us to utilize them to the fullest is one thing. However, actions that may be interpreted as implying that because one is a Christian, God somehow favors one team over another is a stretch, not to mention offensive. Aren’t there Christians on all the NFL teams?
If we're concerned about winning the lost, Tebow's, Christian integrity exhibited through sportmanship, kindness, etc. will have much greater impact than words and gestures.
Posted by: dv at December 1, 2011
Is proclaiming your thanks to God after a win promoting God's teachings? What about when you lose? Part of me thinks Tim is working hard on him image. A relationship with God is between you and God, not you and a national tv audience. Granted a large part about faith is expressing what he teaches us, but it's easier to bring people in through action and words. I think thanking God for your talents is a necessity, because they are God given, but letting the whole world see that is not necessary in my mind and almost makes Christianity a turn off. We should look at Tim and say 'Gosh I want to be that', and strive to follow Jesus upon seeing someone's character (through his actions). That's what non-believers want to. If you pray to win, it's like praying for the other team to lose-- typically sportspeople only say thank you once they have won. Disappointing.
Posted by: TC at December 1, 2011
I just told our church family last Sunday that although some of them might think Tebow is over the top, they are dead wrong. Tebow is doing exactly what we all should be doing. We have cowered in a corner far too long. I don't want anyone out there being unnecessarily abrasive or rude, but Tebow is not doing that. As for the last comment, this person does not know that Tebow has made a huge point of saying he doesn't pray to win. He prays to represent God well. He has even discussed this issue at length saying "there are believers on the other team as well." Please be informed before making comments. Thank you.
Posted by: Mark Ford at December 1, 2011
Why are Christians even spending time watching this silliness on Sundays? I think Tebow (whoever he is) should take a cue from Eric Liddell. I went to high school with Roger Goodell. My advice to him would be, if we can't get rid of this, tone it down. All games, including the so-called Super Bowl, have a start-to finish broadcast time of 2 hours, including time-outs and all pre- and post-game whatever. This spectacle is, by and large, hopelessly dull, with rare exceptions of athletic luminosity, with all the redeeming value of the Roman Empire's bread-and-circus gladiatorial games.
Posted by: Peter at December 1, 2011
" Preach the Gospel at all times, if necessary use a mega phone!!!" There does need to be balance living and preaching, Romans 10:4 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
Rather than Tebow being full of himself, he instead opts to give thanks to God for each victory, so what is the charge against him? that He talks about God too much? Then so be it! Is he going to fail? At times yes, but by Gods grace we are what we are, and that is the process of being sanctified daily, is Tebow sinless? Are we who proclaim Christ sinless and perfect, then no one should preach the Gospel!!! 1 Corinthians 1:27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.
I will leave this statement from Paul in hopes that we all could examine ourselves of where we are at Galatians 1:10 For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ. You cannot know Tebows heart Warner, let God judge His own servant, if there is an issue of open sin with Tebow then that is a time to gently go to your brother and see him restored, as for the open profession of his faith, your advice could have been given discreetly, Im sure your intention was not to give the unbelieveing world more wicked Amens to not hearing the Gospel but it appears that you may have sided with a world that puts their hands over their ears and say no more just live it, I dont want to hear it.......... To God be the Glory!
Posted by: Joanne at December 1, 2011
The Gospel takes words - it is not "live a good life as an expample to others". Its tell people about what Jesus Christ did for them, and why Jesus needed to do it for them. I hope Tim is able to do those things.
Posted by: Dave at December 1, 2011
Tebow needs to tone nothing down. My prayer is that God's favor would continue to rise upon him and he would tone it up.
Posted by: Pastor John Krach at December 1, 2011
I am with Warner and Plummber. My intelligent, well-read, non-Christian friends are unanimously turned off by the constant references to Christ in relation to football - for the record, an inherently violent sport that to my knowledge has been widely embraced by American Christians without much thought as to any downside to engaging in, watching, and supporting the game.
Perhaps, there are those who are moved to ponder a relationship with Christ based upon what an athlete incessantly says, however, these are not the types of adults I am apt to encounter in today's world.
Posted by: Jer at December 1, 2011
The New Testament always has people both talk and live, so I think Tebow has got it right.
Posted by: Les at December 1, 2011
My friend has a saying. If you throw a rock into a pack of dogs, the one that yelped is the one that got hit.
I can see both sides. Being strategic is wise. Obviously, Christians in Iraq don't walk into a mosque, interrupt the service and start preaching the gospel. @ the same time, I highly doubt that anyone in eternity will say that they praised Jesus too much while they were here. Some people may get sick of hearing about Jesus, others may be embarrassed to be associated with someone so outspoken about Jesus. Either way, it's their hearts that are being revealed. And I'm not ripping KW. I respect him as a fellow believer. I think Kurt's ministry might be more geared towards disciplining believers, while Tim is more of an evangelist. (Now both do both, but the emphasis is different and that's how the body of Christ works. All of the individuals using their individual spiritual gifts working together in the church reveal and proclaim Jesus in the Spirit to the glory of God.)
Posted by: Ben at December 1, 2011
Wow! I never thought I would say this about Kurt Warner, but he is wrong and needs to come correct. Sad that his life in the media is effecting his own boldness.
Posted by: alan at December 1, 2011
I can see both sides to the coin. However, I think Tim needs to find his own path. He will realize that people have heard his voice. Now, just keep living the life. My family prays for hm at night. He has a great platform. It is ashame to hear the commentators. All Christians should be upset at the football sportscasters. They have ridiculed all of us. Yet, we know that unbelievers will find the gospel offensive. We can expect it. I'm thankful for Kurt and continue to pray for Tim. May God be praised and His dear Son imaged.
Posted by: Craig at December 1, 2011
It really boils down to this, if Kurt could ask Christ in person if Kurt should ask Tim to tone it down what would Christ say? The answer would come from a man who overturned the money changers tables at great personal risk, refused to compromise with Pilate with his very existence at stake, had the courage to tell satan off face to face and called the Sanhedrin what they were to their faces.
I'm disappointed that Kurt couldn't let Tim live his own discoveries and am more disappointed that he didn't speak to him man to man. Kurt may be more about comfortable compromise now that he's "successful" and I'm sorry to see that. He's now a rich man who has to pass through the eye of the needle. Tim needs to do what the Lord tells him to do.
Posted by: Larry at December 1, 2011
We don't know everything that Kurt said, or the context in which he is quoted. All we know is what the media printed. And advice to younger believers from older/more experienced Christians should be carefully and prayerfully considered before discarding. However, older/more mature Christians should give their advice in person and avoid public criticism of other believers whenever possible.
Posted by: Bruce Hendrich at December 1, 2011
I agree with Kurt. I have no issue with Tim (or anyone else) professing their faith; however, what would be the reaction if Tim were black (race), Muslim (religious) or gay (social)? I'm sure many of the comments that so strongly support Tim on this board might carry a different tone.
He's a Christian. We get it. Enjoy it...but no need to continuously harp on it. I believe, as Kurt tries to point out, he might win more followers & converts by playing the game, not by constantly harping on what he is.
Posted by: H. Clay Myers at December 2, 2011
Let your light shine before all men! Go Tim Tebow! I respect Kurt Warner, but I have to say that Kurt's advice is a little much. I respect the advice but if Tim wants to express his faith, feelings, and worship to God through the platform that he has been provided, then so be it. Who are we to tell another follower of Christ to calm down on the Jesus talk.
Posted by: Jack at December 2, 2011
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you falsely on my account (Matthew 5:11).
I encourage TT to be humble, and meek, and innocent as a dove and bold and wise as a serpent, for the glory of God alone.
I would think, for me, the greatest challenge given his notoriety and obvious exemplary skill set would be humility and avoiding the trap of seeking glory for self. But that's me, and I don't have the notoriety or skills - maybe for this reason :)
Posted by: Rob at December 2, 2011
I am very curious to see if/how Tim's words change when he gets into a losing streak (right now his team's defense is making up for his poor QB skills) or he gets injured (as all rushing QB's do in the NFL). If he keeps on acknowledging God in those times, that will be very biblical--but if you think the secular press and fans are balking against it now, just wait for the firestorm when he praises God for causing the Broncos to lose!
I don't fault Kurt Warner at all...I think his comments were probably in answer to a direct question since people know he is a believer, and they come from his own been-there-done-that experience--experience that helps him see the long-term big picture rather than just the moment.
All that said, I have to admit that I love hearing Jesus' name enthusiastically and genuinely honored by a young man who obviously loves Him. The realist in me says Tebow will not be a long time success in the NFL...but I'm sure rooting for him!
Posted by: Brian at December 2, 2011
Goodness gracious: as if 'words' and 'deeds' do not go together! I strongly disagree with Kurt.
Posted by: CBob at December 2, 2011
Jeff Berger wrote, "Let's be clear: Kurt Warner was not 'criticizing' Tebow. He was giving him advice, as someone who has been there, of what he considers a better way to witness." If his intention was merely to give advice, why didn't he do it privately instead of publicly in a media interview? Nowhere does the Bible ever instruct believers to tone down the faith language or to avoid speaking publicly about our faith. Kurt needs to read his Bible.
Posted by: Julie at December 2, 2011
Sad, Kurt! Who is anyone to tell someone "a better way to witness"?
Tebow public testimony may give young Christians encouragement to stand publicly for their faith in Jesus. I say keep it up, Tim!
Posted by: joan phillips at December 2, 2011
Keep doing what your doing Tim...Live it and preach it boldly! Boo for Warner, especially to The Republic..C'mon Man!
Posted by: Fr. Craig at December 2, 2011
I agree with Kurt because I hear believers and nonbelievers alike (especially the Broncos fans) mock Tim Tebow (and Jesus) in the office after a game. Kurt is trying to explain why Tim needs to think through the effect his words are having. Kurt has the authority to say these things because he has experienced it firsthand. That's all.
Posted by: al at December 2, 2011
2 Points:
1) I had the impression that KW was being interviewed and the question as to what he might tell TT popped up. I suspect it rather caught him off guard. He may well wish he had given a different response in such a public forum. Let's not judge him so harshly, lest we be guilty of that of which we are accusing him. Let’s cut him the slack we’d like in his position.
2) Is there no one who has observed preachers who continually brow beat their congregations on Sundays and then wonder why no one is coming to Christ or that the church isn't growing --often blaming the hearers of his preaching rather than examining his approach? Sometime zealous, well-intentioned Christians charge in w/their way of witnessing and when it fails or backfires, they blame the hearers. We could use more zeal, but I have regrets re: some of my zealous words/deeds. Can anyone relate?
What about Paul saying that he became all things to all men that he might win some. (2 Cor. 9:22) Seems to me we are to consider how best to influence those to whom we are witnessing. It that not the principle behind KW's comment?
Posted by: D V at December 2, 2011
Big freakin' deal, "unbelievers are turned off." Where are you going to send them to...Hell #2 ? Salvation is of God, NOT of men! We as the elect are called to give witness to what GOD has done and especially to Who HE is! We don't need seminars and advice from so-called "elder" retired quarterbacks. Tim only has to answer to his Heavenly Father. I'm sure He is already well pleased hearing the love and adoration for His Son coming from Tim's heart and lips. Scripture says, "if we don't praise Him, the rocks will cry out." Tim does not need to be concerned about over doing it...those who disagree need a fresh baptism of fire from on high!
Posted by: cmaglaughlin at December 2, 2011
Why don't folks back off Tebow. Jealously perhaps? Remember the early Christians when they were told to shut up? I too, am disappointed in Warners' comments. Ones faith is not something you "tone down". If you are able to, then how real is it?
Posted by: twoods at December 3, 2011
It seems to me that Kurt Warner, is not founded in the Word of God.Anyone who would go on the David Letterman show and Dancing with the Stars and then critize a brother in public, about his witness, has no foundation. I am praying for him that God will show him the error of his ways and that he will pull the logs out his eyes.
Posted by: ntc4ume at December 3, 2011
I can understand why Kurt - an athlete I respect and enjoyed cheering for because of his faith - would express his view about what he believes to be the most effective way to witness as a Christian.
However, I don't fully agree. I think there is a time and a place for witnessing, but Tebow was an effective witness for Jesus in the SEC (as a UGA guy, I couldn't stand him as a Gator but I respected his faith). The negative press and comments from a vocal minority only served to strengthen the faith and also draw more attention to Christianity in a positive way, and I have a hard time believing that's bad.
But I do want to see Tim publicly and openly pray the same way when he loses or makes a mistake on the field. Prayer isn't just for success, and faith in the Lord belongs at least as much in the public view in times of loss and adversity. THAT will make people understand that faith in God is not just the "Thank God" window-dressing that a lot of players spout after a victory.
God Bless.
Posted by: Jim C at December 3, 2011
Seems there’s a lot of vitriol being spewed against KW here. He was NOT condemning TT. He was answering a question as to how he would advise. We don’t have to agree, but do we have the right or obligation to make such hateful, judgmental remarks?
If non Christians read these comments, is this the impression we want to give them? --Christians eating each other up, judging and condemning one another? That type of behavior is prevalent in the world. Why would they want more of the same by becoming a Christian? Are we not overlooking that we are to be known for our love for one another?
We’re also to love the lost and unlovable. How does blowing them off with an attitude that basically says, “They are going to be offended, anyway. So, just let them go to hell,” represent Christ or the true intent of the Gospel?
Perhaps we should step back for a bit and consider whether all this adequately and honorably represents Christ and the Gospel.
Posted by: DV at December 3, 2011
As Christians, we are supposed to thank God for everything we have, but we also have the responsibility of discerning the value of things. Some things we think are valuable--like riches or fame--can be our undoing as Christians. Sometimes it seems to me that athletes who talk a lot about God after big games/plays are insensitive to the concerns of real seekers, who often find God after they have sought happiness, financial security, and other unattainable goals to no avail--basically, people at the end of their ropes. Unchurched people need to know Christ as a savior, not as a benevolent being who provides athletes with touchdowns. Tebow thanking God for a touchdown threatens to cheapen the saving work of God, and makes Tebow look naive to the concerns of seekers who are looking for something more. Tebow thanking Christ as his savior during a post-game interview is a credit to God. With times being as they are, people are looking for a savior, not a 'buddy Jesus' type person who grants superficial wishes. I don't watch a lot of pro football (follow college ball very closely though) so I haven't been following this very closely, but I think that tebow talking about his mission work and other valuable ministries has more impact than him thanking God for TDs. I don't think he should stop giving God the credit, but needs to do so in a way that recognizes that what God provides is far more than just a positive outcome in a football game.
Posted by: Tiff at December 3, 2011
Tebow's relentless religion-peddling appeals to Christians who like in-face-your-face proselytizing. To everyone else, it just makes him seem pathetic and insecure.
Posted by: Kathleen at December 4, 2011
Matthew 6:1:
1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
Matthew 6:5
And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
Matthew 6:6:
6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Posted by: oskarm at December 4, 2011
(NKJV)John 15:18-19
"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. [19] If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
Jesus was crucified by the religeous for being outspoken and not mincing words to satisfy itching ears
Posted by: mark elmore at December 5, 2011
Who put Kurt Warner in charge of "faith talk"?
Posted by: Dan at December 5, 2011
The problem with Tebow and Christians is that Christians are desperately searching for a hero, which usually turns out badly. I think Tebow is a fine young man who loves God and plays football. Christians should refrain from giving him hero status.
Posted by: mom at December 5, 2011
Warner is simply advising Tebow to dial it back a bit. I can understand that. But who is Kurt worried Tebow will rub the wrong way? There are MANY people who literally CAN'T STAND Tim Tebow precisely BECAUSE of his faith. It is my hope Tebow does indeed rub these haters the wrong way. Tebow will win few converts, but how is it such a fine young man would turn people off to Christianity? Imagine a young person, or any person, considering giving his life to Christ who decides against that because of the example of...Tim Tebow! It's a ridiculous thought. Tebow makes the haters hate even more. That's why I love the kid. Despite the haters the kid wins and gives fearless praise. So, who is Tebow rubbing the wrong way? Non-christians? Well, if Tebows talent, example, and life don't convince 'em, big deal. I'm new to Christianity after 30 years as a liberal from Massachusetts. I LOVE the kid! The old me would have resented him - probably hated him. So, I know they're out there - many of them. Me now? The kid lifts me up and is yet another confirmation of God and God's love. Patriots fan my entire life and yet I've never enjoyed football more than these recent weeks watching the Denver Broncos. When the Pats and Broncos play later this month - I'm rooting for Denver.
Posted by: JDW at December 5, 2011
Tebow lifts me up too...the haters should open their hearts just a crack and let the Holy Spirit come in and show them truth, joy and rebirth in Jesus Christ...God's free gift to us for joy on earth and thru eternity as revealed in His Holy Word....
Posted by: Elle at December 6, 2011
What I like about Tim Tebow is his zeal. All of those who come to faith in Christ experience this overwhelming love for the Lord but especially for those who are young of age. Tebow is quite young and very much in a long honeymoon stage in his faith in Christ. Should we tell him to get off this honeymoon? Can we tell people that? or tell him to stop feeling that way? Quit manifesting how you feel about your God. And why do people get tired of people being in love? Maybe people don't really believe that this kind of love can last or exist. Tim is a great reminder of that first love we have in Christ. BTW...if Kurt Warner was near me, I would definitely suggest calling Tim for lunch.
Posted by: Nathan at December 7, 2011
I remember when Kurt was in the same situation and I never remember another Christian calling him out for being vocal. In fact, I think God blessed him even more for it. We need to encourage and uplift one another in Christ not tear eachother down. The government and media are doing enough of that on their own. Let God be the judge of his words, not man. If I had a daughter I would pray that God would bring a man like him into her life!
You go Tebow!! ...you are an all-star in God's eyes!
Posted by: LB at December 7, 2011
Thank you Kurt Warner! Reggie White was a great athlete, outspoken for Jesus all the while loving his teammates not only in words but in actions. Tim's actions draw atttention to him! I hope he can balance his faith being in the world & not of it. Another great example of godly love in action is Tony Dungy. His character is shown not just through words but his actions...especially after the suicide of his son.
A hurting lost world needs Christians that care enough to love them in small & big actions everyday. The Church has become too much of a social club. No wonder missionaries that have served their entire lives in the mission field often have a difficult time finding a church home when they return to the States. They have lived out the relationship between words & actions...its called self-sacrifice for Him!
Posted by: olivia at December 12, 2011
My initial reaction is that Kurt Warner comes across critical because he does not affirm in any way in this article being verbally public about Christ. Comments like "he should let his teammates do the talking" give the impression that your verbal testimony is not important, only your visible one. Kurt makes verbal vs. visible witness an "either/or" issue when it is always "both/and". Because he does, he essentially draws a line where we now must choose sides and as a result there is division. There is no line. It is and always will be "both/and". I applaud a young man who is living under great duress a "both/and" witness. Kurt should as well. As Tebow matures, the Holy Spirit will teach him to do both better. Until then, I'm celebrating BOTH his verbal and visible witness. But, then again this is a news article and I'm sure much the interview was edited out which does not bode well for Kurt's character...
Posted by: Rollo at December 13, 2011
I agree with Kurt. I don't know why everyone here is hounding on him. Words mean little these days and yes, your actions speak louder than any words you could ever speak. People are making Tebow out to be more than what he is. People acting like he's the only Christian to have ever played the game. There is a better way to conduct yourself as a Christian and I'm sure as time goes on, Tebow will realize what Kurt and many others mean.
Posted by: Martin Taven at December 13, 2011
In all fairness, has anyone noticed that when we are comenting critically about Warner we are doing the very thing of which we are accusing him? It’s just that the target is Warner, not Tebow.
Why do so many insist on taking KW out of context???? Remember, he was answering an interviewer’s question. He may not have had a lot of time to think about his reply. Who has not been in a similar situation? He may well wish he’d have stated his answer a little differently. Where’s the application of “do unto others; judge not;” or “be merciful” in all this tirade against him?
Posted by: DV at December 14, 2011
There are a lot of devil worshipers out there and I am glad to hear Tebow is not one of them. I am glad Tebow expressed his feelings.fr
Posted by: Dewayne Howard at December 14, 2011
Tebow's expression of his feelings of this Christianity, makes me proud to be a Christian. Some of the "dances" in the end zone are expressing the same feelings, others are stupid.
Posted by: W Lutz at December 14, 2011
I am glad that Tebow is bold for his faith. I am especially glad that he preaches a message of purity to a culture that is so far beyond that, that it is unheard of. I am hopeful that God will sustain him, but I am mindful that he is a sinner saved by grace and the message needs to be who has saved him and why he needed to be saved at all. I will pray that he be strengthened in the midst of the worse temptation imagineable and comforted when he falls short. I appreciate KW's comments, and agree with most of what he says, Jesus does not need Tebow heading up his marketing campaign, he is glorified by a young man living his faith and trying to walk in righteousness covered by the blood. Should Tebow continue to give Glory to God in winning and in losing, I will be ecstatic.Considering the cost of Christianity outside the west, a little criticism for being "too bold" isn't a terrible thing.
Posted by: todd at December 15, 2011
Christians we all need to be careful not to idolize Tebow. Yes he loves Jesus, and he is bold, but im seeing it a tad too much where the idolization is starting to come in. Lets not put him on the throne but lets put Him on the throne.
Posted by: Heather Lane at December 18, 2011
Warner backed Obama for President.His advise is to blend in and not "rock the boat". Sounds like he's ashamed of the gospel. He should keep his advise to himself.
Posted by: Jeff at December 19, 2011
It is suppose to be that the defense was tremendous, but there is the intangible "phenomenon Tebow". I guess that deserves discussion about what the Broncos record would have Kyle Orton continued to play. It looked like a losing team with Orton. The D is great, but Tebow say what someone should get some credit for the 7-1. QB is usually judged by victory and defeat plain and simple. The numbers may not be there but the most important. Now this could be the Trent Dilfer argument again, but these reimbursements fourth quarter just make the discussion more interesting.anyway, for more news, we can visit http://www.tebowformvp.com/... thanx
Posted by: Morris at December 22, 2011
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