On the weekend after 21-year-old, white supremacist, Dylann Roof had slaughtered nine of its members, at a Wednesday night Bible study, Charleston’s Emannuel African Methodist Episcopal Church reopened its doors and proclaimed forgiveness in Christ Jesus. Pastor Revd Clementa Pinckney was amongst those killed. Temporary pastor, Revd Norvel Gof, said: “The devil also entered – and the devil was trying to take charge.” “Thanks be to God, hallelujah, that the devil cannot take control of your people. And the devil cannot take control of your church.”

In an extraordinary example to the whole world the victims’ loved ones and fellow church members, in the midst of their heartbreak and personal loss, confronted the perpetrator and told him they forgave him and prayed for his soul. These black brothers and sisters are a profound witness to the transformative power of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

“We welcomed you Wednesday night in our Bible study with open arms,” said Felecia Sanders. “You have killed some of the most beautifulest people that I know. Every fiber in my body hurts … and I’ll never be the same.” “Tywanza Sanders was my son, but Tywanza was my hero,” she said. “May God have mercy on you.” Anthony Thompson, the grandson of victim Myra Thompson, told Roof, “I forgive you, my family forgives you. … We would like you to take this opportunity to repent. Do that and you’ll be better of than you are right now.”

Source: Los Angeles Times; Christian Post; Revival Media

Bible Study: Ephesians 4:31-32

PRAISE God that true forgiveness comes through the love of Christ. Pray that this witness may be a beacon of light to many.