Jessa Duggar's father-in-law Michael Seewald posts an essay titled 'Grace Greater Than Our Sin' on his blog, defending Josh amidst molestation scandal.
- May 26, 2015
AceShowbiz - Amidst child molestation scandal, Josh Duggar has received words of support from his sister Jessa Duggar's father-in-law Michael Seewald. Michael defended Josh in an essay titled "Grace Greater Than Our Sin" posted on his family's blog on Monday, May 25.
Michael wrote, "I want to say that the Seewald family stands with the Duggar family in solidarity. We stand with the unnamed victims of these incidents. Our thoughts and prayers are for you. I want to say to Josh, hang in there, the shame you feel is legitimate, yet Jesus took your shame as he was punished in your place. Rest in his forgiveness and grace."
"Remember that he gives you his righteousness as a covering for your shame. Let this trial in your life build humility and grace. Don't be angry at the world for their hatred of you. Show them through your love for them that it is Jesus Christ that made all the difference in your life," he added, "I'm rooting for you."
Ben Seewald's father said Josh "didn't sin because he was repressed, he sinned because like all of us he is a sinner." He also said Josh's parents Jim Bob Duggar and Michelle Duggar "acted in a way that godly parents should."
Michael said of Jim and Michelle, "They did not turn a blind eye, but earnestly sought help from the church, counselors, and eventually the police. Maybe they didn't do it in a way that pleases everyone, but they acted decisively to confront the sin, to call a penitent son back from his errors, and to seek to aid the hurting victims."
"In the end Josh sought forgiveness from those he wronged, repented of his sins, and came to trust Christ as his Savior," he continued, "He has to the present day attested to the reality of his repentance and faith by living above reproach. In their efforts to salvage the wreckage that these transgressions brought, and bring healing to all involved, Jim Bob and Michelle are to be commended."
