- While Folau said he was “deeply saddened” by Rugby Australia’s final decision, he insisted that it was his “duty as a Christian to share God’s word.”
- “As Australians, we are born with certain rights, including the right to freedom of religion and the right to freedom of expression,” he said, according to the BBC. “The Christian faith has always been a part of my life and I believe it is my duty as a Christian to share God’s word.”
- “Upholding my religious beliefs should not prevent my ability to work or play for my club and country,” Folau added.
Rugby star Israel Folau’s punishment for sharing a Bible verse on Instagram has been finalized by a three-person panel: he has been sacked. Rugby Australia announced the final decision Friday, noting that it had been an “extremely challenging period” for the sporting world.
“Rugby Australia did not choose to be in the situation, but Rugby Australia’s position remains that Israel, through his actions, left us with no choice but to pursue the course of action resulting in today’s outcome,” RA chief executive Raelene Castle said following the ruling.
She added that “we need to stand by our values and the qualities of inclusion, passion, integrity, discipline, respect and teamwork.”
The post, which is still live on Folau’s page, declares “WARNING,” before listing a number of sins which must be repented of, pending eternal judgment.
Referencing 1 Corinthians 6:9, the graphic lists “Drunks, homosexuals, drunks, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists, idolaters,” before imploring “HELL AWAITS YOU,” and “REPENT! ONLY JESUS SAVES.”
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