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."

    Most Popular
  • Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Is 'The Last Supper' worth watching? Audience and critics weigh in

    Faith-based films often receive mixed reactions, and The Last Supper is no exception. The movie attempts to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most iconic moments in Christian history, but does it succeed? Some reviews from critics and audiences provide insight into its strengths and shortcomings.

  • ‘The Chosen’ Season 5: The darkest season yet—What to know before watching

    The wait is over—The Chosen is back with its fifth season, and this time, things are getting intense. The new episodes dive straight into the final days of Jesus’ life, covering some of the most emotional and dramatic moments in the Bible. If you’ve been following the series, you already know that The Chosen isn’t just about retelling familiar stories—it’s about bringing them to life in a way that feels real.

  • Massacres in Syria: Over 1,000 dead, including Christians and Alawites

    Syria’s coastal regions have been devastated by a series of massacres, with reports indicating that over 1,000 people—many from Christian and Alawite communities—have been killed in brutal attacks. Entire families have been wiped out, and survivors are fleeing in search of safety as sectarian violence escalates.

  • Kim Sae-ron and Wheesung: The tragic irony of Korean society and the principles of happiness

    Not long ago, the media was in an uproar over actress Kim Sae-ron’s passing. Just months before, the same people who had relentlessly criticized her for her DUI incident were now expressing sympathy, saying, "The world was too harsh on her." The irony is impossible to ignore.

  • Newsboys move forward as a quartet after Michael Tait’s departure

    After more than a decade as the lead singer of the Newsboys, Michael Tait has officially parted ways with the band, marking a significant shift in the Christian rock group’s lineup. The remaining members—Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee—have assured fans that they will continue forward, embracing a new season of music and ministry.

Top Stories