Franklin Graham, American evangelist, says he cannot believe that Caitlyn Jenner, Olympic gold medallist, is being honoured with the ESPN ESPY Award for Courage.

“I find this hard to swallow after spending time with wounded military veterans and their spouses with Operation Heal Our Patriots – they are true heroes and their lives define courage,” he wrote on Facebook.

“Some have had 30 or 40 surgeries, not to change their gender, but to try to put their bodies back together after defending our country.”

He also said that Jenner is a “very confused” person and told that it is not right to proclaim her as a “hero” to the world as it is sending the wrong message out.

“Give me a break. If you want an example of real courage, it’s when Jesus Christ willingly allowed Himself to become your sin and died in your place on the cross – the Righteous One for the unrighteous.” Graham said.

Graham also commended Judge C. Allen McConnell for bravery since he refused to honour a lesbian marriage despite the new laws being passed by the Supreme Court, allowing same-sex marriage to be legalised throughout the US.

“Here’s a judge who’s got it right and fears God more than man!” said Graham. “McConnell, who is a former Toledo, Ohio, NAACP chapter leader, said he declined to perform the marriage ‘based upon my personal and Christian beliefs established over many years. I apologise to the couple for the delay they experienced and wish them the best.'”

Graham added that he thought the world needs more people like McConnell, people that are not afraid to stand up for their beliefs, despite what others think or say.

“Pray for him and other judges, along with clerks, magistrates, and more who are now faced with the same dilemma.” He said. “May they be as bold.”