Franklin Graham Responds to Matt Lauer Scandal: 'Be Sure Your Sin Will Find You Out'

By Leah Marieann Klett
Matt Lauer
'Today Show' anchor Matt Lauer (left) was fired from NBC after an employee filed a complaint alleging "inappropriate sexual behavior in the workplace."  NBC/AP Photo

Evangelist Franklin Graham said the firing of longtime "Today Show" anchor Matt Lauer over sexual misconduct allegations is a "warning to all of us to examine our lives."

The son of Billy Graham and founder of Samaritan's Purse weighed in on the controversy in a Facebook post.

"What we're seeing in the recent string of what is termed 'misconduct' really boils down to a morality issue-people failing to follow God's standards, and that is called sin," he contended. "The Bible tells us, '...be sure your sin will find you out.' This is a warning to all of us to examine our lives."

The evangelist emphasized that the commandment doesn't just apply to movie stars, media personalities, and politicians, but to everyone.

"One sin leads to others and can have a great impact on our own lives and the lives of those around us," he said. "Sin has devastating consequences-here on earth, and for eternity. But God is anxious for us to come to Him in repentance and ask for His forgiveness and help. True healing comes through trusting Jesus Christ in faith and following Him as the Lord of our lives."

NBC announced it had fired Lauer, a network fixture for over 20 years, on Wednesday morning after a female colleague made a detailed complaint accusing him of inappropriate sexual behavior during the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

The New York Times later reported that two other women had made complaints about Lauer after he was fired, and an unidentified former employee said the 59-year-old journalist sexually assaulted her in his office in 2001.

Since then, a number of outlets have published more detailed stories of Lauer's alleged sexual misconduct with women over the years.

On Tuesday morning, Lauer, who has three children with his wife of 19 years, Annette Roque, released a statement saying he was "truly sorry" and admitted that "there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed."

"There are no words to express my sorrow and regret for the pain I have caused others by words and actions. To the people I have hurt, I am truly sorry. As I am writing this I realize the depth of the damage and disappointment I have left behind at home and at NBC," Lauer said.

"Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterized, but there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed. I regret that my shame is now shared by the people I cherish dearly.

"Repairing the damage will take a lot of time and soul searching and I'm committed to beginning that effort. It is now my full time job," he added. "The last two days have forced me to take a very hard look at my own troubling flaws. It's been humbling. I am blessed to be surrounded by the people I love. I thank them for their patience and grace."

  • [Exclusive Interview] A revelation within the brink of life and death — Meg Leung’s mission in Christian art

    Meg Leung (梁麗橋), an artist with a lifelong love for watercolor painting, sees her art as more than a means of expressing her inner world; it is a bridge connecting her to God. Her artistic journey has revealed God’s perfect plan and inspired her to communicate the power of faith through her wor

  • Transgenderism a fundamental human right? Hong Kong public disagrees, survey finds

    A 2024 survey from the Society for Truth and Light (明光社)'s Center for Life and Ethics Research reveals that respondents from various backgrounds prioritize personal safety and fairness when it comes to transgender issues. When laws involve moral judgments, most respondents believe courts should not make the decisions. The study also indicates that religious believers share similar views with non-religious respondents, reflecting that many churches may rarely address gender topics in depth.

  • Discipleship and Evangelism: Walking the Path of the Great Commission

    Like an ever-flowing spring, the gospel refreshes dry, parched lands and needs our unwavering passion and steadfast faith to transform lives and bring renewal. The "flame in our hearts" calls Christians to keep their faith and love for the Lord ablaze, representing the work and power of the Holy Spirit, driving us to proclaim God's glory boldly.

  • North America Chinese Evangelical Seminary year-end report highlights significant ministry progress

    As the year draws to a close, Rev. James Liu, President of the Chinese Evangelical Seminary North America (CESNA), reflected on the seminary’s remarkable growth and ministry development over the past year. Dedicated to providing theological education to Chinese Christians, CESNA continues to uphold its mission to remain faithful to the gospel and nurture believers. This year’s achievements span academic, ministerial, and outreach endeavors, fostering spiritual growth and advancing missionary wo