New York Jets quarterback Tim Tebow took to the pulpit this morning in
Georgetown, Texas, on the holiest day of the Christian calendar to
share his personal story of faith. In an interview during the service
that lasted for about 20 minutes, he explained how he believes God
deserves all the glory.Pastor Joe
Champion at Celebration Church says he received an "out of the blue"
phone call from Tebow, asking if he could come to Georgetown and speak
on Easter Sunday.Champion said yes.
The church rented more than 100 buses to drive people to the service,
and people arrived hours early to save a seat near the front.
About 15,000 people attended the outdoor service.
"Obviously, it's our Super Bowl. Easter is the resurrection of Christ in which we celebrate in our faith," Champion said.
Champion said that despite his famous guest today, the message is still that God is great.
"There will be a sacredness of Easter. It's not a Tim Tebow show; it's not about a celebrity," Champion said.
The man nicknamed "God's quarterback" is known for "Tebowing," where he
drops to one knee in prayer during games, has certainly brought
Christianity to the gridiron in a way never seen before.
"They're calling it Tebowing. I really don't think I was the first
athlete to get on my knees and pray. But I think it's pretty cool,
because prayer is being talked about. And it's okay to be outspoken
about your faith, and get on your knee and pray about it," Tebow at the
service today.
"When it comes to Christianity right now it's the Pope and Tebow," Champion said.
Tebow has spoken publicly about his religious beliefs before, saying,
"I think the greatest way to share the gospel is by acting it."
In the NFL in particular, players have a history of finding their true
selves in ministry, but usually after their playing days are over.
Reggie White of the Green Bay Packers was a pastor. The Dallas Cowboys'
Ken Hutcherson and the San Diego Chargers' Miles McPherson became
pastors after they left the game.