Posted on 08/12/2006 9:02:24 AM PDT by churchillbuff
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Aug. 11) - Focus on the Family ministry founder James Dobson spoke in support Thursday of Mel Gibson and his film, "The Passion of the Christ," saying Gibson's drunken tirade during a traffic stop had nothing to do with "one of the finest films of this era."
Gibson, 50, was arrested for drunken driving Aug. 1 in Malibu, Calif., and launched an anti-Semitic rant toward the arresting deputy. Gibson reportedly said, "The Jews are responsible for all the wars in the world," and asked him, "Are you a Jew?"
Dobson said in a statement that "we certainly do not condone that racially insensitive outburst," but added "Mel has apologized profusely for the incident and there the matter should rest."
"Mel has also indicated his willingness to seek help to overcome his alcoholism, and has asked the Jewish community for forgiveness," Dobson said. "What more can he do?"
Gibson has had a troubled relationship with Jewish organizations since his violent 2004 blockbuster about the crucifixion, which some criticized for portraying Jews as responsible for Jesus' death. Supporters, including Dobson, say the movie followed the Gospel story.
"Our endorsement of it stands as originally stated. We did not believe it was anti-Semitic in 2004, and our views have not changed," Dobson said
All actors enjoy being the center of attention and most of the time no harm done. I think Mel Gibson lives on the edge. This time Mel stepped way over that edge and his actions won't ever go away. For the rest of Gibson`s life, he will be known first and foremost as, an anti-Semite.
He followed "supplemental material" that was well accepted in the Roman Catholic church. Evangelicals view most of this stuff as speculative at best.
way i see it, Christ killed himself and his executioners merely the instrument... his mission in life was to die for our sins.
he delivered himself unto them Judas not withstanding, because he KNEW he was going to his death when he gave himself up.
Gods' Love...
Probably so. He needs not only help for his drinking, but also for who he is. He hasn't figured that out yet(you'd think by 50 he'd get it). I wish him well and prayers.
Mel is just one of the many troubled people in the world today. I wish him all the best too.
I will have to take your word Jimmy Boy on that. This Christian has never seen the Passion of Christ. I like to get my religion straight and as unfiltered as a English speaking man can get it and that is from the King James Version. As far as all these people defending Mel Gibson, I just don't get it. Gibson seems a pretty typical Hollywood type. I would tend to believe what some people say drunk may be more reflective of the inner self than what they say sober. I cannot defend what he said, but on the other hand I will not condemn him. So what if Mel Gibson is an anti-semite in a Hollywood that is predominantly anti-Christian.Not since Roy, Hoppy, and Gene have I looked to Hollywood for any type of moral instruction. Politically, morally, and spiritually Hollywood and most of its inhabitants are living in lala land and public hand wringing over Gibson by a man who has the public stature of James Dobson is quite curious to say the least.
He was great as Scotty on 'Star Trek!'
My Mother was from Texas. She hated Mexicans.
I support Mel Gibson too....sh!t happens...and it happened to Mel...live and learn...Mel
This story is becoming yesterday's news, finally. Meantime who is talking about Robin Williams and his 2-year relaspse into alcoholism and treatment now in rehab? I can imagine he's said some colorful and offensive things while drunk, and he says them when he's sober too!
James Dobson Lends Support to Mel Gibson...
but stands firm on his hatred of Tinky Winky and disgust at SpongeBob Squarepants.
That wasn't Dobson...FYI.
ooops. my mistake.
"For the rest of Gibson`s life, he will be known first and foremost as, an anti-Semite."
Maybe by people like you, but not by me.
Anyone who makes a fetish of a single bible translation must be taken with not a grain, but a pound of salt.
For the rest of Gibson`s life, he will be known first and foremost as, an anti-Semite.
I remain hopeful that he'll do something else that will far overshadow the thing on PCH.
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