In many ways, Ben Seewald is the ideal Duggar son-in-law.
He’s completely reliant on the family for his financial well-being; he can recite the Bible backward and forward; and his reverence for Lord Jim Bob seems to be complete and unwavering.
But there’s a rebellious streak in Ben that his in-laws are probably less than thrilled with.
If you watch Counting On online, you know “rebellious” isn’t exactly the first word that comes to mind when you think of Ben.
Still, unlike so many denizens of Duggar world, the dude definitely has a mind of his own.
Last month, we learned that Seewald supports Colin Kaepernick and his controversial protests against police violence targeted at African-Americans.
Shortly thereafter, the 21-year-old revealed that he will continue to support Black Lives Matter and use his platform to bring attention it.
The problems afflicting the nation’s most troubled communities has gained national attention of late, and clearly strikes a chord with Ben.
That may not seem like a particularly scandalous agenda, but you have to bear in mind that the Duggars and their fans are an extremely conservative lot …
Seewald has been harshly criticized for his views on social media, but he clearly has no intention of backing down.
His most recent Instagram post is a photo of a block of text that seems to sum up his position.
It reads:
“Its so appalling how out of touch many white believers are with their black brothers and sisters in the faith (and Hispanic and others as well).”
“It makes me want to weep.”
“I see so much quick judgment and so little empathy. The flesh points a finger – but Jesus would have us seek unity and walk a mile in each other’s shoes.”
“Love demands this. Christ demands this.
“We must repent … but the sad thing is that so many are so preoccupied that they don’t even see it as an issue.”
Not surprisingly, many of the comments were critical, with users admonishing Ben to “get educated” and using the #PoliceLivesMatter hashtag.
Some, however, were vocal in their support of Seewald.
“Thanks Ben Seewald,” wrote one commenter.
“I’m a 47 year old black mom of 2. You’re one of the main reasons I watch. Your authenticity is refreshing.”
Thus far, Ben has yet to express his views on Counting On.
Normally, we’d say it’ll never happen out of fear of alienating the show’s core demographic.
But with how hard the show’s struggling in the ratings lately, producers might welcome a bit of controversy.