Christian Concern's Director of Islamic Affairs, Tim Dieppe, writes:
The fourth member of the notorious Islamic State execution squad led by the infamous Mohammed Emwazi, known as "Jihadi John", has been identified as El Shafee Elsheikh, 27, from London. The group were dubbed "the Beatles" by their captives because of their British accents. They killed and tortured more than two dozen hostages.
His devastated mother claims that he was radicalised in just 17 days of attending sermons at mosques in London. His father also describes his radicalisation as "lightning fast." His mother states that he was influenced by sermons of Hani al-Sibai, and attended sermons at three mosques resulting in his radicalisation. Hani al-Sibai is believed to have also influenced Mohammed Emwazi. Hani al-Sibai, who described the 7/7 attacks in London as a "great victory", lives in a £1m house in west London on state benefits. Efforts to deport him have failed.
One wonders if anyone is monitoring what is said in these west London mosques? Has anyone restricted Hani al-Sibai from preaching? The speed of his radicalisation is extraordinary and shows how powerful radical Islamic teaching can be.
The only way to effectively counter radical Islam is with radical Christianity. The message of Jesus is much more powerful and life transforming. Christian preachers need to have the confidence that we can create radical disciples of Jesus in a matter of weeks. These disciples will spread love rather than hate and turn the world upside down. Let us pray for radical Christians with the boldness to confront radical Islam with love.
Related Links:
Fourth member of Isis 'Beatles' identified (Guardian)
Muslim convert speaks up for Christian Concern