Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"

All of us have a responsibility to exercise justice, but elders in the Christian congregation especially have a responsibility in this regard. Notice the prophetic description of "princes," or elders, recorded by Isaiah: "Look! a king will reign for righteousness itself; and as respects princes, they will rule as princes for justice itself." (Isaiah 32:1) Yes, Jehovah expects elders to serve in the intersts of justice. How can they do this?

These spiritually qualified men are well aware that justice, or righteousness, requires that the congregation be kept clean. At times, elders are obligated to judge cases of serious wrongdoing. When doing so, they remember that divine justice seeks to extend mercy if at all possible. They thus try to lead the sinner to repentance. But what if the sinner fails to manifest genuine repentance despite such efforts to help him? In perfect justice, Jehovah's Word directs that a firm step be taken: "Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." that means expelling him from the congregation. ( 1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 2 John 9-11) It saddens the elders to have to take such action, but they recognize that it is necessary in order to protect the moral and spiritual cleanness of the congregation. Even then, they hope that someday the sinner. will come to his senses and return to the congregation. - Luke 15:17, 18.

Serving in the interests of justice also involves offering Bible-based counsel when needed. Of course, elders do not look for flaws in others. Nor do they seize every opportunity to offer correction. But a fellow believer may take "some false step before he is aware of it." Remembering that divine justice is neiter cruel nor unfeeling will move elders to "try to readjust such a man in the spirit of mildness." (Galatians 6:1) Hence, elders would not scold an erring one or employ harsh words. Instead, counsel that is given lovingly encourages the one receiving it. Even when giving pointed reproof-straightforwardly outlining the consequences of an unwise course-elder keep in mind that a fellow believer who has erred is a sheep in Jehovah's flock. (Luke 15:7) When counsel or reproof is clearly motivated by and give in love, it is more likely to readjust the erring one.

Elders are often called upon to make decisions that affect their fellow believers. For example, elders periodically meet to consider whether other brothers in the congregation qualify to be recommended as elders of ministerial servants. The elders know the importance of being impartial. They let God's requirements for such appointments guide them in making decisions, not relying on mere personal feelings. they thus act "without prejudgment, doing nothing according to ta biased leaning." - Timothy 5:21.

Next time: Conclusion of Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002