In this Monday, Aug. 3, 2009 file photo, Bishop Eddie Long speaks during a funeral service at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Ga. Long, the pastor of a nationally known Atlanta-area megachurch will wait until Sunday services to speak publicly about claims he has already denied that he coerced young men into sex.

Shock waves were sent through the Christian community late tuesday, Sep. 28, night when allegations of sexual coercion were filed against the nationally-known minister of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.

The suit filed by Anthony Flagg and Maurice Murray Robinson claims lavish trips, luxury cars, and money were exchanged for sexual favors by Bishop Eddie Long as well as the bishop abusing his position as a spiritual authority to pressure young men into sex.

The plaintiff’s say the bishop would use a division of the church, Longfellow Academy, to recruit these young men as his “Spiritual Sons” for his supposed sexual endeavors.

This is not the first bit of controversy to follow Long.  In 2005 the bishop was accused of mishandling funds that were obtained through charities started by Long. Though he isn’t the only person in this case to have a bit of controversy behind his side of the story.

In June, Robinson was arrested and charged with burglary in connection with a break-in to Long’s office. Robinson’s Lawyer claims the the theft was Robinson’s attempt to “retaliate” against the pastor.

Bishop Long continues to adamantly deny these reports stating, “These allegations are a case of retaliation and  shake down for money by men with some serious credibility issues.”

Though if these issues are concluded in truth then they will undoubtedly have severe reprecussions on the minister’s career. Seeing as he has been a anti-gay rights activist for several years, even being called “One of the most virulently homophobic black leaders in the religiously based Anti-gay community” by The Southern Poverty Law Center’ Magazine, it will definitely solidify his position as a hypocrite in the Christian and Gay community.

This scandal, along with several others including investigations over pastor’s Creflo Dollar and evangelist Benny Hynn for financial irresponsibility, will undoubtedly change some views on the Christian Community and, unfortunately, it will be for the worst.

Bishop Eddie Long still maintains his innocence until proven guilty in a court of law.