Missionary Josh Sullivan Demonstrates Forgiveness Before Kidnapping in South Africa

US missionary Josh Sullivan showcased remarkable forgiveness after a robbery incident before his abduction in South Africa. Following the theft, he chose not to seek revenge, instead preaching a message of grace. Sullivan’s abduction occurs while he leads Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, with kidnappers demanding ransom for his return. His church and family continue to advocate for his safety, conveying hope and resilience amid these challenges.

In the lead-up to his abduction in South Africa, Tennessee missionary Josh Sullivan, aged 34, expressed forgiveness towards a young man who had robbed him of his wallet. This incident occurred months prior and was highlighted during a sermon at Tri-City Baptist Church. Following the robbery, local residents offered to take violent retribution against the thief, but Sullivan chose instead to forgive him and deliver a message of hope and the Gospel to the community.

Sullivan, who leads the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, South Africa, was reportedly kidnapped by armed men during church services last Thursday. According to law enforcement, the assailants are demanding an undisclosed ransom for his return. The church’s secretary, Heather Shirley, declined to reveal the ransom amount for safety reasons and could not confirm Sullivan’s current status.

The Sullivan couple first journeyed to South Africa in 2015 for biblical training and returned in 2018 with a firm commitment to missionary work among the Xhosa people. Sullivan dedicated two years to studying the Xhosa language to enhance his ability to minister effectively within the community, resulting in the establishment of Fellowship Baptist Church, which serves the local residents.

Pastor Tom Hatley of Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, expressed his willingness to support the Sullivan family, sharing updates during a recent sermon. He remarked on his conversations with Meagan Sullivan and highlighted the family’s urgent desire for Josh’s safe return. Hatley stated, “We’re praying for Meagan; I’ve spoken to her several times since Thursday. They want their daddy and Meagan wants her husband.”

In a vlog from February 7, prior to his kidnapping, Sullivan described Motherwell’s demographics and the challenges of leading the only independent fundamental Baptist church in a township of approximately 400,000 individuals. The church began from a Bible study and has grown significantly, attracting between 80 to 140 attendees weekly.

Reflecting on the robbery incident, Sullivan recounted how he was distracted by an individual, only to find that his wallet was being stolen. After pursuing the thief, he managed to retrieve his wallet, at which point he faced community pressure to punish the robber severely. Sullivan recounted, “Now there’s 200 people outside waiting for me to give some kind of report.”

Faced with the potential for violence, Sullivan urged the gathered crowd to show mercy, stating, “I’ve forgiven him. He’s given me the wallet back. I don’t want anyone to hurt him.” He utilized this moment to convey a message of grace and forgiveness to the community, emphasizing the shared human condition of sinfulness.

In summation, the account of Josh Sullivan illustrates the profound impact of forgiveness amidst adversity. His actions not only demonstrate personal integrity and compassion but also serve as a beacon of hope to his community. Despite facing extreme circumstances, including his recent abduction, the ethos of his message remains rooted in faith and the Gospel, garnering the prayers and support of his church and loved ones across the globe.

Original Source: www.christianpost.com