Israel Folau has given his first public interview since being sacked by Rugby Australia (RA) in a plea to help fund his legal battle with the sport's governing body.
The former Waratahs and Wallabies star has been embroiled in controversy since his Instagram post on April 10, saying drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolaters would go to hell.
- Israel Folau seeks help to raise money in fight against Rugby Australia
- Israel Folau lashes out at Rugby Australia in leaked letter
- Israel Folau takes aim at transgender children, gays in church sermon
Last month, RA CEO Raelene Castle terminated the 30-year-old's multi-million dollar contract on the advice of an independent panel which led to Folau vowing to take the case to the highest court possible.
Folau has since set up a GoFundMe page where the dual-code international is asking for AU$3m (NZ$4m) to cover legal costs.
Speaking to former Wallaby coach turned broadcaster Alan Jones on 2GB radio, Folau said his Instagram post came "from a place of love".
"There are things the Bible speaks of that might go against things that people are doing.
"But from my perspective, I'm always about sharing that from a place of love.
"Believing from the Bible that people have the opportunity to hear that [message], so that they do repent if they chose to.
"And turn away from that, and have the opportunity to be in heaven one day which is what I long for people to choose to do."
Folau's GoFundMe page has nearly raised AU$100,000 with more than 1000 people donating money.
He also posted a plea on his Instagram page which was also shared by his wife Maria who plays for the Silver Ferns.
Folau admitted the past few months have been tough on his family.
The 62-test veteran declared that there was no social media clause in his contract with Rugby Australia.
"After the first initial incident that happened last year I had a meeting with Raelene and we spoke about the potential effect it can have within the game. She said I was still able to share my religious beliefs but just do it in a more respectful way."
Newshub.
