Here are some directions to the elders from the elders secret manual
UNIT 5 (b)
111
You must ask pertinent, discreet questions to isolate main
issues and determine how or why a problem developed.
Probing questions should not go into needless details,
especially in regard to sexual misconduct, unless this is
absolutely necessary, such as in determining whether
por-nei'a had been committed.
Elders need to treat the accused kindly and respectfully,
never harshly. (w89 9/15 p. 19)
In cases where it is established that a serious sin was actually committed, the judicial committee should con-
sider such factors as these:
Is there evidence of the person's craving wrongful things
or courting trouble? Or did the person momentarily
succumb to weakness? (Jas. 4:1 )
Was he aware of the gravity of his sin? (Gal. 6:1 )
Had he been admonished that his course was leading
toward danger? (1 Thess. 5:14)
What were the circumstances leading up to the wrong-
doing?
Are there extenuating factors, such as emotional or
mental disorders or having been a victim of some type
of abuse in the past, that should be considered?
Was it a single offense, or was it committed more than
once?
112
"Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock"
Was his confession voluntary, or did he have to be ac-
cused by others before confessing?
Was his reluctance to speak more a result of deep shame
than of lack of repentance?
Above all does he show true repentance and manifest a
heartfelt desire to avoid repetition of the wrong?
It is in the person's favor if he voluntarily confesses,
but the determining factor is: Is he repentant?
There is good reason for you to weigh carefully claims of
repentance when the individual has shown himself to be
guilty of hypocrisy, lying, or making deliberate efforts to
deceive.
Also be cautious when it is apparent that the wrong act
was preceded by deliberate scheming, perhaps in a cold,
calculating way.
This is quite different from when an individual, under
the unexpected pressure ot certain tempting circum-
stances, gives in because of human weakness.
It is particularly important to be sure genuine repen-tance exsts in cases of repeated sin, a practice of sin.
If gross sin extended over a long period of time, particular
care should be exercised in determining the genuineness of
the repentance. (w81 9/1 p. 26)
Is the person cooperative? When questioned, are his
answers forthright?
Was fear and weakness the reason he did not come
forward and confess, or is he wicked, trying to fool the
congregation?
Has he been counseled before for this sin?
Repentance is generally manifested by works that befit repentance either before or during the committee hear-
ing. (Compare Acts 26:20. )
How true repentance can be recognized:
Has the individual contritely prayed to Jehovah and
sought His forgiveness and mercy?
Caution: Some wrongdoers, though repentant, find
it difficult to pray. (Jas. 5:14 )
Has he admitted his wrongdoing, either voluntarily to
some of the elders before the hearing or when con-
fronted by his accusers?
Caution: Some people are so deeply ashamed that
they are reluctant to speak. Or they have difficulty
expressing themselves.
Has he made restitution, expressed willingness to do so,
or apologized to offended persons, those damaged by
his sinful course?
114
"Pay Attention to Yourselves and to All the Flock"
What seems to motivate the sadness, remorse, and
regret he shows? Is it worldly sadness (sorrow over
being caught) or heartfelt godly sadness? (2 Cor. 7:
8-11 )
Does he have deep regret over a damaged relation-
ship with Jehovah, remorse over the reproach he has
brought upon Jehovah's name and people, and sincere
longing to come back into God's favor?
Does his attitude include a heart-motivated rejection of
the bad course as something repugnant, hated? (Rom.
12:9)
