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These lines apply to societies in which there is a respect for religious faith. In modern American society, however, religious belief is held in disrepute and is mocked by the influential. When someone like Tebow demonstrates his religious faith in public he is instead opening himself to criticism and mockery. His act is therefore not self-aggrandizing, as it would be in the time of Jesus, but a brave, selfless act of leadership. He provides strength and encouragement to others.

I don't think so. The Lord Jesus Christ doesn't need anyone to amend or soften his words, nor make an excuse for disobeying his commandments. The Holy, inspired, inerrant, verbally given verse says "But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly." and that is just what it means, in context and without embroidery.

What Tebow is exemplifying for others in, and encouraging them in, is incomplete obedience to the direct orders.

In the Great Commissioning of believer-disciples (Mt. 28:20), The Christ, in the third clause, issues the order to congregate the believer-disciplers together for public instruction to keep and faithfully transmit his commandments without change or addition. This is one of the chores for which the holy convocation of the first day of every week is set apart. Substituting Sunday football for this activity does not seem to be within the scope of the commandments, nor is ostentatious showing of religiosity. That is for a spiritual infant, not a warrior who is very aware of the conflict for His disciples' allegiance!

With sincere regard for your well-meant but ill-conceived comment --

I appreciate your perspective.

That is for a spiritual infant, not a warrior who is very aware of the conflict for His disciples' allegiance!

The world is probably more awash with spiritual infants than at any time in our collective memories. They watch American Idol and Sunday football. Someone who can "connect" with them and encourage religious faith by example provides an important service. I understand your concern about the Sabbath, but think that too literal an interpretation would lead us to miss great opportunities to reach millions.

Several men in their twenties, a generation younger than me, have told me how much they admire Tebow. Through our conversations, I have a sense that none of them have a strong faith, but Tebow has them thinking. That is a very good thing in my book.