The press conference you will never hear

Rev. Jeffress [Regarding Mitt Romney’s candidacy for President]: “Mormonism is a cult, not Christianity. Every true born-again follower of Christ ought to embrace a Christian over a non-Christian.”

Reporter: “Rev. Jeffress, in the interest of full disclosure, would you make a statement about your personal investment in trying to marginalize Mr. Romney’s church?”

Rev.Jeffress: Yes. Thank you. I am a professional minister, under salary with the First Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas. As such I may profit personally by casting a negative light on a competing religion, especially one that proselytes all persons and, worst of all, operates totally with an unpaid ministry.

Reporter: But Rev. Jeffress, surely you must be aware that Mr. Romney’s church professes a strong believe in Christ as their Savior and a commitment to follow him. In fact the official name of the church is the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Why then do you call his church a cult and non-Christian?

Rev.Jeffress: This is only good business. We are competing for the hearts and souls of men. We know that we are using a non-standard definition of the word Christian, but most people are too lazy or dull to question what we are doing. Using these provocative words helps to keep people away from investigating and joining Mr. Romney’s church.

Reporter: “But why would Mr. Romney’s religion make him unfit for being President?”

Rev.Jeffress: I am sorry, but that is not the issue. We are concerned that if he were elected President, his religion would become more acceptable in the eyes of the majority of people and allow his church to grow and take away from our churches and livelihood.

Reporter: Thank you, Rev. Jeffress, for your candid responses.