HOW THE ELDERS ASSIST THOSE WHO ARE REMOVED - Conclusion

What about individuals who in the past were removed from the congregation, perhaps many years ago? Such individuals may no longer be practicing the sin for which they were removed. Whatever the case, the elders try to locate and visit these individuals. During such visits, the elder will often pray with them and make a warm appeal for them to return to the congregation. Of course, if a person has been away from the congregation for many years, he would no doubt be very weak spiritually. Therefore, if he indicates that he wants to return to the congregation, the elders might arrange for someone to conduct a Bible study with him, even though he has not yet been reinstated.  In all cases, the elders would be the ones to arrange for a Bible study.

In imitation of Jehovah's compassion, the elders reach out and help as many as possible to know that the door is open to them to come back.  When a sinner manifests repentance ad abandons his wrong course, he can be reinstated without delay. - 2 CORINTHIANS 2:6-8.

In certain circumstances the elders need to be especially careful before reinstating someone. For example, if a person was guilty of child abuse or apostasy or if he schemed to end a marriage, the elders would want to make sure that is truly repentant. (Malichi 2:14; 2 Timothy 3:6) They must protect the flock. At the same time, we need to realize that Jehovah will accept back any wrongdoer who shows genuine repentance and stops engaging in wrong conduct. so although the elders exercise due caution with those who have dealt treacherously with others, they should not go so far as to say that certain types of sinners can receive Jehovah's mercy. - 1 PETER 2:10,

Next time:  WHAT THE CONGREGATION CAN DO

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