“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:13
On Sunday, the founder of Duck Commander and star of Duck Dynasty, Phil Robertson, passed away at the age of 79. The patriarch of the Robertson family passed away after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease and a serious blood disease that caused him severe pain.
Robertson will be remembered for his courageous and bold witness for the Lord throughout his life. Robertson used the spotlight and fame that surrounded him due to the popularity of the show “Duck Dynasty” to be a public testimony to the power of Christ in one’s life.
Phil’s boldness for the Lord was clearly seen in 2013 when the A&E Network suspended Phil due to some remarks he made in an interview with GQ magazine. In the interview, Phil was asked, “What, in your mind, is sinful?” He answered by quoting 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, which condemns homosexuality and other sinful actions.
Due to his comments about homosexuality being sinful Phil was hit with intense public criticism where he was labeled as “hateful” and a “bigot.” Phil responded to the attacks by saying, “All I did was quote a passage of Scripture from antiquity. They’re mad at me, but I’m really just quoting what God said, so He’s the one they have a problem with.”
Phil was a man who was willing to stay true to the Lord and His Word no matter what it might cost him personally because He knew ultimately his life was not about earthly fame or fortune but about glorifying the Lord. Phil’s son Willie and daughter-in-law Korie released this statement on social media after Phil’s passing, “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord. We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again.”
LET US PRAY…
Father, we praise You for the life that Phil Robertson lived for You and for the public testimony he was for the Gospel. Lord, please be with his family and bring them comfort as they mourn the loss of their loved one. Father, please empower us to use whatever influence we have to be a bold witness for You just as Phil was. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
