By now, everyone has read about or watched news segments regarding recent comments made by “Duck Dynasty” patriarch Phil Robertson.
Without rehashing the details, he said he is in agreement with what many Christians believe — that homosexuality is a sin, and sin is wrong.
Robertson’s comments were in response to a question he was asked during a magazine-story interview. I think the interviewer knew what Robertson’s response would be and asked the question to create controversy and draw readers. Robertson since has been attacked by different groups and individuals who disagree with him.
I’m not going to get into who is right on the issue. As a Christian, I know what the Bible says. I’d like to focus on how far public discourse has digressed, allowing an individual to be vilified for simply expressing his views.
When it comes to religion and politics, we have lots of different opinions. At one time, we could express them without fear of retaliation. Now, though, it seems the only people who can express opinions on issues such as religion, homosexuality, race and even animal rights are those with “politically correct” views. If an individual or a group doesn’t toe the line, they are labeled as zealots, bigots, homophobics, sexist and even animal haters. One group — Bible-believing Christians — constantly is attacked.
The A&E channel suspended Robertson from “Duck Dynasty,” and both his supporters and opponents have taken to social-media sites like Twitter and Facebook to weigh in.
So, what happens to the show?
Recently, the family released a statement that said, “We are disappointed that Phil has been placed on hiatus for expressing his faith, which is his constitutionally protected right. We have had a successful working relationship with A&E, but as a family, we cannot imagine the show going forward without our patriarch at the helm.”
A&E has the right to do what is in the best interest of the network. The Robertsons also have that right.
I’ve watched maybe five episodes of “Duck Dynasty.” It’s cute, but not my kind of show. I do, however, love that the family prays at the end of every episode.
The “Duck Dynasty” brand is making big money. Those bearded guys seem to be everywhere.
I hope the family does the right thing and sticks with their father. If A&E doesn’t agree with what Robertson said, maybe they should go their separate ways. Another network is sure to pick them up — maybe the Christian Broadcasting Network.

Editor’s note: A&E has reinstated Robertson to the show since this was written.