Friday, September 3 The existing authorities stand placed in their relative positions by God.​—Rom. 13:1.

[Áine]

Friday, September 3

The existing authorities stand placed in their relative positions by God.—Rom. 13:1.

 

Do elders comply with secular laws about reporting an allegation of child abuse to the secular authorities? Yes. In places where such laws exist, elders endeavor to comply with secular laws about reporting allegations of abuse. Such laws do not conflict with God’s law. (Acts 5:28, 29) So when they learn of an allegation, elders immediately seek direction on how they can comply with laws about reporting it. Elders assure victims and their parents and others with knowledge of the matter that they are free to report an allegation of abuse to the secular authorities. But what if the report is about someone who is a part of the congregation and the matter then becomes known in the community? Should the Christian who reported it feel that he has brought reproach on God’s name? No. The abuser is the one who brings reproach on God’s name. w19.05 10 ¶13-14

[Elnathan]

Imitating Jehovah the God of justice will help us view sexual abuse as a gross sin & a wicked deed. As members of the congregation, We show love & compassion to the victims & continue to provide ongoing support. 
Elders have the responsibility of imitating Jehovah’s justice and to remain alert by protecting the congregation from potential danger. 

[Vinnie]

Jehovah has set up an arrangement not only for blessings but also for punishment.  Romans 13:4 for it is God’s minister to you for your good. But if you are doing what is bad, be in fear, for it is not without purpose that it bears the sword. It is God’s minister, an avenger to express wrath against the one practicing what is bad. Jehovah does not have a blind eye to any who do what is hurtful. In due time a person reaps what he sows.