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Christian comedian John Crist admits 'destructive and sinful' behaviour after sexual misconduct allegations

by Tola Mbakwe

The claims against him include sexting, harassment, affairs with married women and women in committed relationships and offering free tickets to his shows in exchange for sexual favours.

The allegations were revealed in an article by Charisma News on Wednesday which shared the stories of five women who claim Crist initiated inappropriate sexual behaviour with them.

It's been reported that over the last seven years Crist has used his popular and influential Christian platform to "to harass, manipulate and exploit young women".

In an email sent to Charisma News this week and published in the story, Crist admitted to "destructive and sinful" behaviour but said he is "not guilty of everything" he's been accused of.

"While I am not guilty of everything I've been accused of, I confess to being guilty of this—I have treated relationships with women far too casually, in some cases even recklessly," he wrote.

"I've sinned against God, against women and the people who I love the most. I have violated my own Christian beliefs, convictions and values, and have hurt many people in the process. I am sorry for the hurt and pain I have caused these women and will continue to seek their forgiveness. I have also hurt the name of Jesus and have sought His forgiveness."

In the email, Crist added that he has privately sought and received professional treatment for his "sexual sin and addiction struggles".

"I'm committed to getting healing and freedom from my sin and have decided to cancel my remaining tour dates this year and to postpone all future commitments in order to devote all my time and energy on getting healthy spiritually, mentally and physically," he wrote.

According to Charisma News, Crist most recently received counselling for "unspecified issues" in January.

Crist described his actions as shameful and apologised for hurting so many people.

"I don't blame anyone but myself," he added. I'm responsible for my actions and I've repented and am taking full ownership. I realise it will be difficult for some people to ever forgive me, and I accept that as a result of my bad decisions and actions.

"My entire career has been lived out on stage, and even though I've shared many of my life struggles with my audiences, I've lived in constant fear of the darkest parts of my life being exposed publicly."

"My greatest fear has been that those who have loved and supported me would hate me if they knew everything about me. I now humbly seek forgiveness and mercy and love—not just for me, but for those I've hurt along my path. I'm so sorry."

Four of the five women gave permission for Charisma News to use their real names but the news organisation decided against doing so in order to "protect the reputations and identities of those sources".

Crist recently announced his first stand-up special with Netflix I Ain't Prayin for That which debuts on the streaming service on 28th November.

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