Read Kirk Cameron's Response to Critics After Calling Homosexuality 'Unnatural' & 'Destructive

Actor Kirk Cameron is still in the hot seat days after he appeared on Piers Morgan's CNN program to discuss his new film "Monumental." Cameron's Friday interview made headlines after Morgan asked the actor about his views on controversial social issues. Aside from drawing the ire of a portion of the American public, Cameron's comments -- that homosexuality is "unnatural" and "destructive" -- set off responses from fellow "Growing Pains" cast members.

(Related: Actor Kirk Cameron: Homosexuality is ‘Unnatural’ and ‘Destructive')

On Tuesday, Cameron finally responded to the controversy on his Facebook page. In his statement, the actor explained that the CNN interview was not meant to focus on the issues of abortion, gay marriage and homosexuality, but that he was "pleased to answer Piers’ questions as honestly" as he could.

"In some people’s eyes, my responses were not sufficiently 'loving' toward those in the gay community," Cameron wrote. "I can only say that it is my life's mission to love all people, and that I expressed the same views that are expressed clearly and emphatically throughout the Judeo-Christian scriptures."

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Cameron went on to say that he has been encouraged by friends, including some who are gay, in the wake of the condemnation he has received from political and advocacy groups. He continued:

"In the case of one of my gay friends, we regularly talk and have healthy and respectful debate. We learn from each other, and serve others alongside one another. I thank God for all of my friends...even when they hold very different views on issues of faith and morality. I do not, however, believe that the right way to advance our views is to resort to name-calling and personal attacks, as some have done to me."

GLAAD, for instance, has launched into an anti-Cameron crusade, with tweets and messaging that disparage the actor, while labeling him an "extremist." 

When it comes to free speech, the actor believes he was fully within his bounds to speak his mind in a respectful way.

"I should be able to express moral views on social issues--especially those that have been the underpinning of Western civilization for 2,000 years--without being slandered, accused of hate speech, and told from those who preach 'tolerance' that I need to either bend my beliefs to their moral standards or be silent when I’m in the public square," he explained.

Cameron concluded by thanking those who have encouraged him through letters. Additionally, he encouraged people to watch his new film, "Monumental." While this note may have been odd to some -- especially considering that putting in a plug for his film had nothing to do with addressing the controversy -- it appeared to be an attempt to divert the conversation back to his original intention (i.e. promoting "Monumental").

Regardless of whether one stands for or against gay marriage, there is an argument to be made that Cameron, like someone speaking out fervently in support of same-sex marriage, has every right to make his voice heard.