A former religious leader found guilty of repeatedly raping his 14-year-old daughter has been handed a lighter jail sentence after a US judge showed mercy because of his faith.

David Richards was sentenced to 12 years in jail on Thursday in Knox County, Tennessee, 60 years less than the maximum penalty sought by prosecutors.

The 41-year-old was found guilty of rape, incest and sexual battery by an authority figure for abusing his adopted daughter over two years.

Former US pastor David Richards has been jailed for 12 years for raping his daughter, with the judge citing his faith for the light sentence. (Knox County Sheriff's Office)

Judge Steve Sword acknowledged Richard’s work as a pastor and the bible study group he began while in custody, as factors for his reduced sentence.

Richard’s daughter read a powerful victim impact statement in court saying she wanted to throw her body away after what happened to her.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t, in some way, think of what he did to me,” she said.

“I firmly believe if given the opportunity, he would victimize another girl.”

Prosecutors said the abuse lasted for two years before the teenager reported it to authorities.

David Richards was a figure at My Father's House Church in Lenoir City. A group of his supporters were at court during sentencing over the sexual assault of his teen daughter. (Google Maps)

Throughout court proceedings, Richard’s maintained he was innocent and gave evidence in his own defence.

“I’m not sure why I’m here – but I assume it is for his (God’s) purpose,” he said in court.

“I stand before you convicted of crimes I did not commit.”

Richards, a former pastor and member of My Father’s House Church of God in Lenoir City, Tennessee, had 30 friends and parishioners supporting him during the case.

During the investigation, forensic officers found traces of Richard’s DNA on the victim’s bedframe.