Why Is Tim Tebow Backing Out of a Speech at Rod Parsley's Christian Conference?

Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow has captured headlines for months over the phenomenon known as "Tebowing" and a strong allegiance to his Christian beliefs. Now, the famous football player may be the focus of controversy in the faith community after backing out of "Contending for the Faith Weekend," a Christian revival event he reportedly committed to speak at.

Tebow was scheduled to appear in March at the three-day Columbus, Ohio, event being hosted by televangelist Rod Parsley.  In a phone interview with the Associated Press, Tebow's brother Robbie confirmed that his brother is canceling. ABC6 reports that this decision is based on Parsley's controversial teachings. Sports Illustrated has more:

Parsley teaches that God wants the faithful to be rich. Last year, he asked followers to donate more than $1 million to ward off satanic attacks. In the 2008 presidential election, Republican Sen. John McCain disowned an endorsement from Parsley after learning the pastor called Islam an "anti-Christ'' religion.

Apparently, the Tebow camp hadn't looked into the event prior to committing. And now, something has led the player -- perhaps the aforementioned elements -- to backtrack on his commitment.

"I know for a fact that Tim is not going to be a part of it," Robbie Tebow said. "That’s being resolved."

Mark Youngkin, a spokesperson for Parsley, told the AP that Tebow has a contract to speak at the event and that the organizers have asked him to reconsider.

"The ball’s in their court at this point," Youngkin said.