What If There Is Fraud?

Discernment helps us to realize that profits do not result from all investments. Yet, what if fraud is involved? Fraud is "the intentional use of deception, trickery, or perversion of truth for the purpose of inducing another to part with some valuable thing belonging to him or to give up a legal right."  Jesus Christ outlined steps  that may be taken when a person thinks he has been defrauded by a fellow worshiper. According to Matthew 18:15-17, Jesus said: "If your brother commits  a sin, go lay bare his fault between you and him alone.  If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.  But if he does not listen, take along with you  one or two more, in order that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every matter may be established. IF he does not listen  to them speak to the congregation. If  he does not listen even to the congregation, let him be to you just as a man of the nations and as a tax collector." The illustration that Jesus subsequently gave indicates ta t he had in mind such sins as those involving financial matters, including fraud. -Matthew 18:23-35.  

Of course, there would be no Scriptural basis for taking the steps outlined at  Matthew 18:15-17 if there was no evidence or even a suggestion of fraud.  Yet, what if a professing Christian actually defrauded us?  Discernment can safeguard us from taking action that may put the congregation in a bad light. Paul advised fellow Christians to let themselves be wronged and even defrauded instead of taking a brother to court. -1 Corinthians 6:7.

Our genuine brothers and sister are not 'full of fraud and villainy,' like the sorcerer Bar-Jesus.  (Acts 13:6-12)  So let us use discernment when money is lost in business ventures involving fellow believers.  If we are thinking about taking legal action, we should consider the possible effects  on us personally, on the other person or persons, on the congregation, and on outsiders. Pursuing compensations could consume much of our time, energy, and other resources. It might result only in enriching attorneys and other professionals. Sadly, some Christians have sacrificed theocratic privileges because of becoming overly absorbed in these things.  Our being sidetracked in this manner must make Satan happy, but we want to  make Jehovah's heart rejoice. (Proverbs 27:11)  On the other hand, accepting a lose may spare us heartaches and save much time for us and for the elders.  It will help to preserve the congregation's peace and will enable us to keep on seeking first the Kingdom. 

Next time: Discernment and Decision -Making

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997