“They place their reputation in the community above the safety of children,” he said. “It repeats itself everywhere, all over the world.”
Attorney Jeffrey Fritz –
https://www.inquirer.com/news/inq/jehovahs-witnesses-silent-history-child-sex-abuse-20180425.html
Notoriety - Protecting the Brand
Notoriety – Protecting the Brand
Next: 4f – Normal Family
“They’re dedicated to preserving power, preserving their image and keeping their members as isolated as possible,”
Marci Hamilton –
https://www.inquirer.com/news/inq/jehovahs-witnesses-silent-history-child-sex-abuse-20180425.html
The Watch Tower Society has branded Jehovah’s Witnesses as being the “only true religion,” and as being the “pure religion.” Its members are the most moral and honest persons that exist, which is only as a result of having come under the auspices of the Watch Tower Society.[1]
The “disfellowshipping” policy was introduced in The Watchtower magazine of March 1, 1952. In the article introducing that new policy, it was stated: “When a person comes to God’s organization and dedicates himself to Him, he is cleaned up.” (page 134) That magazine repeatedly emphasized that God’s organization is clean, and that has been the mantra to this day – (ARC clip)
From the outset, this policy was primarily concerned with the image of the church above all else. That magazine further stated: “His course of action may have been one of adultery and may have had wide publicity in the papers. Maybe he was put in jail for stealing. Maybe he was very rebellious. Maybe he went out and started a new organization and now is trying to come back. Well, all the people around the place know that that person was an obstinate, disorderly person, and not good company. So we should be careful as to how quickly we take such a person back into the congregation, because of what the “people on the outside” will say. (1 Tim. 3:7, NW) If a person commits adultery and is running around with men and women that are of loose conduct, and everybody knows it, and we say, “Oh, come on back, you’re welcome,” people on the outside will say: “Well, your whole congregation is of the same type.” ” (page 143).
Absolutely nothing is more important than protecting the Jehovah’s Witness brand as being “squeaky clean.”
This has been one of the key factors in determining whether or not to hold a Judicial Hearing, and the type of discipline administered. This been brought out in the instructions to elders in all editions of the elders manual, including the most recent 2020 “Shepherd the Flock of God” :
CHAPTER 8 – APPOINTMENT AND DELETION OF ELDERS AND MINISTERIAL SERVANTS
SITUATIONS THAT MAY REQUIRE A REVIEW OF AN APPOINTED BROTHER’S QUALIFICATIONS
29. Files for Bankruptcy: Have individuals in the congregation or the community become upset?
31. Perhaps the matter is not widely known, if at all.
Chapter 12 – DETERMINING WHETHER A JUDICIAL COMMITTEE SHOULD BE FORMED
15. (4) For example, one or two elders may handle matters by means of counsel if a Christian abused an addictive drug or smoked cigarettes on one or two occasions and the matter is not widely known.
15. (5) Before judicial action would be considered, the elders would need to be certain that the uncleanness is pronounced and offensive, bringing much reproach upon Jehovah’s good name and his people in the community.
49. If the individual is repentant but the assigned elders determine that (1) the wrongdoing is widely known or might become widely known later
58. The body of elders should appoint two elders to gather the facts so that the body can determine whether a judicial committee is needed or not, taking into consideration answers to the following questions:
(1) When did the wrongdoing take place?
(2) How widely known is the matter?
78. If the disorderly conduct is generally unknown to others and poses no threat to their spiritual well-being, usually it is best to handle things through admonition and counsel.
CHAPTER 14 – CHILD ABUSE
RESTRICTIONS
22. For example, the Service Department will provide direction when
(4) one viewed as a child molester by the community or the congregation becomes a publisher or gets baptized.
CHAPTER 16 – PROCEDURE FOR JUDICIAL HEARINGS
20. Reproof should be announced in the following situations:
(1) The sin is widely known or will likely become known in the congregation or community. In such cases, an announcement will safeguard the reputation of the congregation.
As a result, the situations exist where a child will be disfellowshipped for smoking (because it has become known by at least two people), while a child molester will not be disfellowshipped (because it was done in secret).
This priority of protecting the brand plays heavily in the non-reporting of CSA, as well as the refusal by elders to testify, and the concealment by the church of CSA documentation.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1950, page 443
The Bible is not anarchistic for revealing that fact; and neither are Jehovah’s witnesses for teaching the Bible. They are the most law-abiding, order-keeping people on the earth.
The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 1953, page 152
So let each one of us exercise care that we do nothing to bring reproach upon Jehovah’s name and organization, do nothing that would drive men away from it, do nothing that will bar our entrance into the new world.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1953, page 692
They are not willing to join in with the corrupt practices of Satan’s world, but are people of decency, honesty and integrity the world around. Jehovah’s witnesses do not fill the prisons with murderers, thieves and rioters. They are the most law-abiding group of people in the whole world, barring none … If a fair hearing can be had, Jehovah’s witnesses will always be shown to be blameless. They will be shown to be right. They will not be shown to be breakers of proper law.
The Watchtower magazine, October 1, 1954, page 595
That is why a brother may not take his brother into court; there is reproach upon the organization.
The Watchtower magazine, February 15, 1955, page 126
If Christian brothers are in a controversy over financial matters that are of such serious proportions that a lawsuit might be considered, they should take their difficulty to mature brothers of the congregation for a judgment between them rather than go to a worldly court and let the world see them squabbling over money matters. That would hurt the reputation of the Christian organization, publicly airing such matters and indicating to the world that the Christian spirit is not present. Rather than bring such reproach upon the organization, Paul argues that it would be better to be defrauded.
The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 1957, page 253
Jehovah’s witnesses are the most peaceful and law-abiding group of people on earth… But while doing so they also obey all the laws of the land in which they live, except where a law may be made that is contrary to the supreme law of the Creator.
The Watchtower magazine, May 1, 1957, page 280
Certainly being “ready for every good work” would include conducting ourselves outside the organization in such a way that we would not bring reproach on our Father’s and our mother’s good name. We do not live our own lives any more. Our lives belong to God, who bought us with the blood of Jesus Christ. We are subject, therefore, to God through Christ, the chief one in God’s wifely organization, which is our mother. Hence, as parents are known by their children, to bring reproach on the visible New World society is to bring reproach on Jehovah God and Christ Jesus and on our mother. Then Paul says to “speak injuriously of no one.” Gossip puts our mother in a bad light. How is that? Because our brother is a part of God’s New World society, and if we speak of him injuriously it is the same as speaking against Christ, the chief member of the mother organization. Suppose our brother has really done something that is wrong. Will your exposing his nakedness and shame to others add to the respect due our mother?
The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1957, pages 407 and 408
Think on how you want to do nothing that would bring reproach upon Jehovah’s name and his theocratic organization. Think about the desire to survive Armageddon and the desire to live forever in God’s new world… The New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses in all its business relations lives up to Jehovah’s standards and guards them zealously, that nothing may reflect upon it so as to bring dishonor. Exemplary conduct toward all is demonstrated continually by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, resulting in a very good reputation in business dealings in this world. The same high standard should be practiced on the part of the individuals making up the New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses so that no reproach is brought upon Jehovah’s clean organization and upon themselves individually. Infractions would bring dishonor upon the individual Christian and upon the New World society as a whole.
The Watchtower magazine, January 1, 1958, page 10
Lovers of righteousness, real Christians, want to live in a clean world with clean people. How can that be done today? By associating ourselves with men and women of integrity, the ones who are practicing righteousness and speaking the truth in their hearts.
The Watchtower magazine, May 15, 1959, page 169
They do not check themselves with the reminder that this may mean not only their own destruction but also the bringing of reproach on Jehovah and contempt on his visible organization.
The Watchtower magazine, December 1, 1960, page 720
Hence they ought to shrink back aghast from any course that would furnish basis for the mud of reproach and reviling to be slung at God’s honorable organization.
The Watchtower magazine, April 1, 1962, page 212
One thing to help would be to make them feel that they are fortunate for being in a Christian family, looked upon by others as representatives of high-standard people, possessed of better insight and understanding because of being exposed to the enlightenment of the Scriptures.
The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 1963, page 338
Never should we bring reproach upon the name of Jehovah or his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1963, page 410
If the sin has not caused public notoriety and does not endanger the congregation, the one involved may be placed on probation.
The Watchtower magazine, August 1, 1963, page 472
The sinner must fully realize the gravity of his wicked course and the great reproach he has brought upon Jehovah and his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1964, page 685
Keeping the Organization of Public Servants Pure, Chaste – He keenly feels any reproach that is thus being heaped upon his own name, upon his beloved organization, upon his truth and upon the good news of His kingdom. So the private lives of his dedicated public servants are a concern to him.
The Watchtower magazine, October 1, 1966, page 591
For these Christian servants of God have a fine reputation world wide as an honest, hardworking, peaceable people. It is well known that they do not participate in riots, demonstrations or other disorders. Nor do they get drunk, practice fornication or adultery, engage in stealing, or perform other such immoral or criminal acts. As the defendant who previously had raped a girl explained in court: ‘If I had been one of Jehovah’s witnesses I would never have done such a thing!’
The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1970, page 397
Judges and Counselors of a New Order Society – To illustrate how the congregation today expresses judgment against wrongdoing, let us give an abbreviated report of an imaginary case that has come up in a certain congregation. You will notice that the procedure is simple, uncomplicated and informal. The purposes are: (1) To keep the congregation clean in Jehovah’s eyes and free from reproach; (2) to help the offender if possible. All involved are always treated with kindness. The situation involves a dedicated teen-age boy whose parents are Jehovah’s witnesses. He has gone contrary to the counsel of his parents and has fallen into the bad company of some neighborhood boys, leading eventually to stealing. The parents, on discovering this, know that it affects the reputation of the congregation in the community, because not only are the parents Jehovah’s witnesses, but also the son is a dedicated member of the congregation. They bring the matter to the attention of the responsible members of the congregation for correction, so that reproach can be erased from the congregation.
The Watchtower magazine, July 15, 1972, page 439
Love for neighbor also makes them rue the harm they have done to others, the bad example set, the hurt caused, perhaps the way they have sullied the reputation of God’s people among outsiders, thereby hindering persons from recognizing the true congregation of God.
The Watchtower magazine, September 1, 1974, page 516
WHEN LOCKS ARE NOT NEEDED It would be essential to change people, that is, to alter their personalities…Perhaps that strikes you as a “utopian” solution. Is it?… Put bluntly, while non-Witnesses can trust only their kin (and not always them), Witnesses can trust both kin and fellow Witnesses. They are known for their honesty… There are no more honest people in the world than Jehovah’s Witnesses… A world filled with people like them would hardly need locks, would it?… Would it not be a pleasure to associate with such honest, peace-loving people?
Kingdom Ministry, December 1974, page 4
Likely in the case of a notorious situation where one is publicly reproved, it would be the course of wisdom for that one to engage in the preaching work in a section of the territory where the problem is not widely known, at least for a while.
The Watchtower magazine, February 15, 1976, page 124
Important, too, is the need to keep our minds centered on the holy New Order that will be filled with holy people. Constantly reflect on the time when you will be clean and holy forever, physically, mentally, morally and spiritually. However, to experience those blessings it is essential NOW to associate with the clean people that make up the congregations of God.
Kingdom Ministry, March 1976, page 4
This, of course, results in detracting considerably from the good name of Jehovah and his people, to the point of actually at times bringing reproach on the organization, thus requiring that local elders look into such matters.
The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 1977, page 152
There must be a Scriptural basis for restoring such a one who had gone wrong and brought reproach upon Jehovah’s name and the congregation.
The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 1978, page 31
Any fair, thoughtful person can see the high moral standards of those in the Christian congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. This outstanding morality, which has been publicly praised by outsiders, is not because all of these who are now Christians were always honest and principled. It is, rather, proof of the changes that can be made when persons of all backgrounds work to conform their lives to the morality taught in God’s Word.
The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1979, page 25
In these areas, Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their clean living, honesty and close-knit family life.
The Watchtower magazine, September 1, 1981, page 26
In other cases a sin may be known to many in the congregation and/or the community. Or the sin may be such that it will no doubt become generally known in time. Such a case needs to be handled differently.
The Watchtower magazine, May 1, 1983, page 8
But what if there had been repeated instances of drunkenness, or notoriety had resulted? In such cases, the matter should be handled by a judicial committee.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1988, page 18
If the wrongdoing did not bring notoriety and did not pose a danger to the cleanness of the flock, it is not necessary to alert the congregation by any announcement.
Kingdom Ministry, January 1989, page 5
Because of violations in these areas, the Society will be asking the Rooming Departments to check with the motels during the convention to determine if any are experiencing such violations and who is involved. Such abuses are selfish and unloving. They not only make it difficult to negotiate for good rates at the motels but also bring reproach on Jehovah’s name and organization.
The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 1989, page 14
The foregoing underscores the ever-widening gulf that separates Jehovah’s people from Satan’s world… God’s people, on the other hand, are walking on a different road, a clean road being followed by clean people.
The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 1992, page 10
But what attitude is required in order to be forgiven? … A truly repentant person would show remorse over any reproach, sorrow, or problems his sin had brought on Jehovah’s name and organization.
Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom (1993), page 714
In this world that has “come to be past all moral sense,” they have a reputation for leading honest, morally clean lives.
Kingdom Ministry, January 1994, page 5
Violations in these areas make it difficult to negotiate good rates, and they bring reproach on Jehovah’s name and organization.
The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 1994, page 19
Throughout the earth Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their high principles
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1994, page 28
Maintain a God-Honoring Reputation – Jehovah’s Witnesses today are likewise concerned that they do not stumble others. Not surprisingly, then, as a whole, they enjoy a good reputation worldwide as being honest, taxpaying citizens.
The Watchtower magazine, November 1, 1995, page 28
What if the sufferer decides that he wants to make an accusation? Then the two elders can advise him that, in line with the principle at Matthew 18:15, he should personally approach the accused about the matter. If the accuser is not emotionally able to do this face-to-face, it can be done by telephone or perhaps by writing a letter. In this way the one accused is given the opportunity to go on record before Jehovah with his answer to the accusation. He may even be able to present evidence that he could not have committed the abuse. Or perhaps the one accused will confess, and a reconciliation may be achieved. What a blessing that would be! If there is a confession, the two elders can handle matters further in accordance with Scriptural principles.
The Watchtower magazine, December 15, 1995, page 28
While righteousness uplifts, sin can bring disgrace upon one’s good name, especially if serious wrongdoing becomes known in the community.
The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 1996, page 18
Suppose, then, that a recently baptized publisher formerly had a drinking problem and lapsed into overindulgence on one or two occasions. Or perhaps he overcame a long-standing tobacco habit but yielded to the temptation to smoke privately a time or two… Scriptural counsel may suffice to help him to make straight paths for his feet thereafter… In some cases more may be needed. If notoriety, danger to the flock, or other serious problems are involved, the body of elders would assign two elders to investigate the matter.
The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1996, page 15
Loyalty to Jehovah God will also keep us from doing anything that would bring reproach upon his name and Kingdom. For example, two Christians once got into such difficulty with each other that they improperly resorted to a worldly law court. The judge asked, ‘Are both of you Jehovah’s Witnesses?’ Evidently he could not understand what they were doing in court. What a reproach that was! Loyalty to Jehovah God would have caused those brothers to heed the counsel of the apostle Paul: “Really, then, it means altogether a defeat for you that you are having lawsuits with one another. Why do you not rather let yourselves be wronged? Why do you not rather let yourselves be defrauded?” (1 Corinthians 6:7) Certainly, the course of loyalty to Jehovah God is to suffer personal loss rather than bring reproach upon Jehovah and his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, Jan 1, 1997 page 27
For a man who was a child molester before he was baptized, there may be another consequence. When he learns the truth, he repents and turns around, not bringing that cruel sin into the congregation. He may thereafter make fine progress, completely overcome his wrong impulses, and even be inclined to ‘reach out’ for a responsible position in the congregation. What, though, if he still has to live down notoriety in the community as a former child molester? Would he “be irreprehensible, . . . have a fine testimony from people on the outside, . . . [be] free from accusation”? (1 Timothy 3:1-7, 10; Titus 1:7) No, he would not. Hence, he would not qualify for congregation privileges.
The Watchtower magazine, October 15, 1998, page 7
No doubt this is a major reason why Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world are known for their spiritual prosperity, peace, and happiness.
The Awake! magazine, January 8, 1999, page 9
“Jehovah’s Witnesses experience greater success than members of other denominations in maintaining stable marital unions.”—American Ethnologist… As the above quotations indicate, Jehovah’s Witnesses are recognized throughout the world as exemplary citizens. In addition, they are known for their free Bible education work and for the promotion of family values.
The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 1999, page 28
Yet, what if it became publicly known that a Christian blithely disregarded God’s evaluations?
Kingdom Ministry, May 2001, page 6
These are typical of the many positive comments received from onlookers after last year’s district conventions, underscoring the fine reputation we have as an organization.
The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 2002, page 31
There is one more aspect to consider: How do people in the community view suicide and the death of the person? This is especially of concern to the elders, who are interested in the reputation of the local congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The Watchtower magazine, February 1, 2004, page 32
Jehovah’s Witnesses everywhere are known for their honesty.
The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 2005, page 8
THROUGHOUT the earth, Jehovah’s Witnesses—young and old—are known for their honesty
The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 2005
Our having a reputation in the community as being morally clean, upright, and honest people brings glory to God.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 2006, page 30
If a sin is widely known or will undoubtedly become known, an announcement to the congregation would likely be appropriate in order to protect its reputation.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 2008, page 22
We should be careful that our conduct does not bring reproach on Jehovah and his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 2013, page 10
It is not that many Christians in the congregations are walking in badness or becoming “bad figs,” as were many Jews back then. On the contrary, God’s servants today are a devoted, clean people.
The Watchtower magazine, October 2017, page 22
We view it as an honor to live up to Jehovah’s high moral standard, maintaining conduct that in no way brings reproach on his name. Thus, we may succeed in escaping Jehovah’s judgment against those who deliberately violate his law.
Next: 4f – Normal Family
The Bible is not anarchistic for revealing that fact; and neither are Jehovah’s witnesses for teaching the Bible. They are the most law-abiding, order-keeping people on the earth.
The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 1953, page 152
So let each one of us exercise care that we do nothing to bring reproach upon Jehovah’s name and organization, do nothing that would drive men away from it, do nothing that will bar our entrance into the new world.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1953, page 692
They are not willing to join in with the corrupt practices of Satan’s world, but are people of decency, honesty and integrity the world around. Jehovah’s witnesses do not fill the prisons with murderers, thieves and rioters. They are the most law-abiding group of people in the whole world, barring none … If a fair hearing can be had, Jehovah’s witnesses will always be shown to be blameless. They will be shown to be right. They will not be shown to be breakers of proper law.
The Watchtower magazine, October 1, 1954, page 595
That is why a brother may not take his brother into court; there is reproach upon the organization.
The Watchtower magazine, February 15, 1955, page 126
If Christian brothers are in a controversy over financial matters that are of such serious proportions that a lawsuit might be considered, they should take their difficulty to mature brothers of the congregation for a judgment between them rather than go to a worldly court and let the world see them squabbling over money matters. That would hurt the reputation of the Christian organization, publicly airing such matters and indicating to the world that the Christian spirit is not present. Rather than bring such reproach upon the organization, Paul argues that it would be better to be defrauded.
The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 1957, page 253
Jehovah’s witnesses are the most peaceful and law-abiding group of people on earth… But while doing so they also obey all the laws of the land in which they live, except where a law may be made that is contrary to the supreme law of the Creator.
The Watchtower magazine, May 1, 1957, page 280
Certainly being “ready for every good work” would include conducting ourselves outside the organization in such a way that we would not bring reproach on our Father’s and our mother’s good name. We do not live our own lives any more. Our lives belong to God, who bought us with the blood of Jesus Christ. We are subject, therefore, to God through Christ, the chief one in God’s wifely organization, which is our mother. Hence, as parents are known by their children, to bring reproach on the visible New World society is to bring reproach on Jehovah God and Christ Jesus and on our mother. Then Paul says to “speak injuriously of no one.” Gossip puts our mother in a bad light. How is that? Because our brother is a part of God’s New World society, and if we speak of him injuriously it is the same as speaking against Christ, the chief member of the mother organization. Suppose our brother has really done something that is wrong. Will your exposing his nakedness and shame to others add to the respect due our mother?
The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1957, pages 407 and 408
Think on how you want to do nothing that would bring reproach upon Jehovah’s name and his theocratic organization. Think about the desire to survive Armageddon and the desire to live forever in God’s new world… The New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses in all its business relations lives up to Jehovah’s standards and guards them zealously, that nothing may reflect upon it so as to bring dishonor. Exemplary conduct toward all is demonstrated continually by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, resulting in a very good reputation in business dealings in this world. The same high standard should be practiced on the part of the individuals making up the New World society of Jehovah’s witnesses so that no reproach is brought upon Jehovah’s clean organization and upon themselves individually. Infractions would bring dishonor upon the individual Christian and upon the New World society as a whole.
The Watchtower magazine, January 1, 1958, page 10
Lovers of righteousness, real Christians, want to live in a clean world with clean people. How can that be done today? By associating ourselves with men and women of integrity, the ones who are practicing righteousness and speaking the truth in their hearts.
The Watchtower magazine, May 15, 1959, page 169
They do not check themselves with the reminder that this may mean not only their own destruction but also the bringing of reproach on Jehovah and contempt on his visible organization.
The Watchtower magazine, December 1, 1960, page 720
Hence they ought to shrink back aghast from any course that would furnish basis for the mud of reproach and reviling to be slung at God’s honorable organization.
The Watchtower magazine, April 1, 1962, page 212
One thing to help would be to make them feel that they are fortunate for being in a Christian family, looked upon by others as representatives of high-standard people, possessed of better insight and understanding because of being exposed to the enlightenment of the Scriptures.
The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 1963, page 338
Never should we bring reproach upon the name of Jehovah or his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1963, page 410
If the sin has not caused public notoriety and does not endanger the congregation, the one involved may be placed on probation.
The Watchtower magazine, August 1, 1963, page 472
The sinner must fully realize the gravity of his wicked course and the great reproach he has brought upon Jehovah and his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1964, page 685
Keeping the Organization of Public Servants Pure, Chaste – He keenly feels any reproach that is thus being heaped upon his own name, upon his beloved organization, upon his truth and upon the good news of His kingdom. So the private lives of his dedicated public servants are a concern to him.
The Watchtower magazine, October 1, 1966, page 591
For these Christian servants of God have a fine reputation world wide as an honest, hardworking, peaceable people. It is well known that they do not participate in riots, demonstrations or other disorders. Nor do they get drunk, practice fornication or adultery, engage in stealing, or perform other such immoral or criminal acts. As the defendant who previously had raped a girl explained in court: ‘If I had been one of Jehovah’s witnesses I would never have done such a thing!’
The Watchtower magazine, July 1, 1970, page 397
Judges and Counselors of a New Order Society – To illustrate how the congregation today expresses judgment against wrongdoing, let us give an abbreviated report of an imaginary case that has come up in a certain congregation. You will notice that the procedure is simple, uncomplicated and informal. The purposes are: (1) To keep the congregation clean in Jehovah’s eyes and free from reproach; (2) to help the offender if possible. All involved are always treated with kindness. The situation involves a dedicated teen-age boy whose parents are Jehovah’s witnesses. He has gone contrary to the counsel of his parents and has fallen into the bad company of some neighborhood boys, leading eventually to stealing. The parents, on discovering this, know that it affects the reputation of the congregation in the community, because not only are the parents Jehovah’s witnesses, but also the son is a dedicated member of the congregation. They bring the matter to the attention of the responsible members of the congregation for correction, so that reproach can be erased from the congregation.
The Watchtower magazine, July 15, 1972, page 439
Love for neighbor also makes them rue the harm they have done to others, the bad example set, the hurt caused, perhaps the way they have sullied the reputation of God’s people among outsiders, thereby hindering persons from recognizing the true congregation of God.
The Watchtower magazine, September 1, 1974, page 516
WHEN LOCKS ARE NOT NEEDED It would be essential to change people, that is, to alter their personalities…Perhaps that strikes you as a “utopian” solution. Is it?… Put bluntly, while non-Witnesses can trust only their kin (and not always them), Witnesses can trust both kin and fellow Witnesses. They are known for their honesty… There are no more honest people in the world than Jehovah’s Witnesses… A world filled with people like them would hardly need locks, would it?… Would it not be a pleasure to associate with such honest, peace-loving people?
Kingdom Ministry, December 1974, page 4
Likely in the case of a notorious situation where one is publicly reproved, it would be the course of wisdom for that one to engage in the preaching work in a section of the territory where the problem is not widely known, at least for a while.
The Watchtower magazine, February 15, 1976, page 124
Important, too, is the need to keep our minds centered on the holy New Order that will be filled with holy people. Constantly reflect on the time when you will be clean and holy forever, physically, mentally, morally and spiritually. However, to experience those blessings it is essential NOW to associate with the clean people that make up the congregations of God.
Kingdom Ministry, March 1976, page 4
This, of course, results in detracting considerably from the good name of Jehovah and his people, to the point of actually at times bringing reproach on the organization, thus requiring that local elders look into such matters.
The Watchtower magazine, March 1, 1977, page 152
There must be a Scriptural basis for restoring such a one who had gone wrong and brought reproach upon Jehovah’s name and the congregation.
The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 1978, page 31
Any fair, thoughtful person can see the high moral standards of those in the Christian congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. This outstanding morality, which has been publicly praised by outsiders, is not because all of these who are now Christians were always honest and principled. It is, rather, proof of the changes that can be made when persons of all backgrounds work to conform their lives to the morality taught in God’s Word.
The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1979, page 25
In these areas, Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their clean living, honesty and close-knit family life.
The Watchtower magazine, September 1, 1981, page 26
In other cases a sin may be known to many in the congregation and/or the community. Or the sin may be such that it will no doubt become generally known in time. Such a case needs to be handled differently.
The Watchtower magazine, May 1, 1983, page 8
But what if there had been repeated instances of drunkenness, or notoriety had resulted? In such cases, the matter should be handled by a judicial committee.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1988, page 18
If the wrongdoing did not bring notoriety and did not pose a danger to the cleanness of the flock, it is not necessary to alert the congregation by any announcement.
Kingdom Ministry, January 1989, page 5
Because of violations in these areas, the Society will be asking the Rooming Departments to check with the motels during the convention to determine if any are experiencing such violations and who is involved. Such abuses are selfish and unloving. They not only make it difficult to negotiate for good rates at the motels but also bring reproach on Jehovah’s name and organization.
The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 1989, page 14
The foregoing underscores the ever-widening gulf that separates Jehovah’s people from Satan’s world… God’s people, on the other hand, are walking on a different road, a clean road being followed by clean people.
The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 1992, page 10
But what attitude is required in order to be forgiven? … A truly repentant person would show remorse over any reproach, sorrow, or problems his sin had brought on Jehovah’s name and organization.
Jehovah’s Witnesses – Proclaimers of God’s Kingdom (1993), page 714
In this world that has “come to be past all moral sense,” they have a reputation for leading honest, morally clean lives.
Kingdom Ministry, January 1994, page 5
Violations in these areas make it difficult to negotiate good rates, and they bring reproach on Jehovah’s name and organization.
The Watchtower magazine, April 15, 1994, page 19
Throughout the earth Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their high principles
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 1994, page 28
Maintain a God-Honoring Reputation – Jehovah’s Witnesses today are likewise concerned that they do not stumble others. Not surprisingly, then, as a whole, they enjoy a good reputation worldwide as being honest, taxpaying citizens.
The Watchtower magazine, November 1, 1995, page 28
What if the sufferer decides that he wants to make an accusation? Then the two elders can advise him that, in line with the principle at Matthew 18:15, he should personally approach the accused about the matter. If the accuser is not emotionally able to do this face-to-face, it can be done by telephone or perhaps by writing a letter. In this way the one accused is given the opportunity to go on record before Jehovah with his answer to the accusation. He may even be able to present evidence that he could not have committed the abuse. Or perhaps the one accused will confess, and a reconciliation may be achieved. What a blessing that would be! If there is a confession, the two elders can handle matters further in accordance with Scriptural principles.
The Watchtower magazine, December 15, 1995, page 28
While righteousness uplifts, sin can bring disgrace upon one’s good name, especially if serious wrongdoing becomes known in the community.
The Watchtower magazine, January 15, 1996, page 18
Suppose, then, that a recently baptized publisher formerly had a drinking problem and lapsed into overindulgence on one or two occasions. Or perhaps he overcame a long-standing tobacco habit but yielded to the temptation to smoke privately a time or two… Scriptural counsel may suffice to help him to make straight paths for his feet thereafter… In some cases more may be needed. If notoriety, danger to the flock, or other serious problems are involved, the body of elders would assign two elders to investigate the matter.
The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 1996, page 15
Loyalty to Jehovah God will also keep us from doing anything that would bring reproach upon his name and Kingdom. For example, two Christians once got into such difficulty with each other that they improperly resorted to a worldly law court. The judge asked, ‘Are both of you Jehovah’s Witnesses?’ Evidently he could not understand what they were doing in court. What a reproach that was! Loyalty to Jehovah God would have caused those brothers to heed the counsel of the apostle Paul: “Really, then, it means altogether a defeat for you that you are having lawsuits with one another. Why do you not rather let yourselves be wronged? Why do you not rather let yourselves be defrauded?” (1 Corinthians 6:7) Certainly, the course of loyalty to Jehovah God is to suffer personal loss rather than bring reproach upon Jehovah and his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, Jan 1, 1997 page 27
For a man who was a child molester before he was baptized, there may be another consequence. When he learns the truth, he repents and turns around, not bringing that cruel sin into the congregation. He may thereafter make fine progress, completely overcome his wrong impulses, and even be inclined to ‘reach out’ for a responsible position in the congregation. What, though, if he still has to live down notoriety in the community as a former child molester? Would he “be irreprehensible, . . . have a fine testimony from people on the outside, . . . [be] free from accusation”? (1 Timothy 3:1-7, 10; Titus 1:7) No, he would not. Hence, he would not qualify for congregation privileges.
The Watchtower magazine, October 15, 1998, page 7
No doubt this is a major reason why Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world are known for their spiritual prosperity, peace, and happiness.
The Awake! magazine, January 8, 1999, page 9
“Jehovah’s Witnesses experience greater success than members of other denominations in maintaining stable marital unions.”—American Ethnologist… As the above quotations indicate, Jehovah’s Witnesses are recognized throughout the world as exemplary citizens. In addition, they are known for their free Bible education work and for the promotion of family values.
The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 1999, page 28
Yet, what if it became publicly known that a Christian blithely disregarded God’s evaluations?
Kingdom Ministry, May 2001, page 6
These are typical of the many positive comments received from onlookers after last year’s district conventions, underscoring the fine reputation we have as an organization.
The Watchtower magazine, June 15, 2002, page 31
There is one more aspect to consider: How do people in the community view suicide and the death of the person? This is especially of concern to the elders, who are interested in the reputation of the local congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The Watchtower magazine, February 1, 2004, page 32
Jehovah’s Witnesses everywhere are known for their honesty.
The Watchtower magazine, June 1, 2005, page 8
THROUGHOUT the earth, Jehovah’s Witnesses—young and old—are known for their honesty
The Watchtower magazine, September 15, 2005
Our having a reputation in the community as being morally clean, upright, and honest people brings glory to God.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 2006, page 30
If a sin is widely known or will undoubtedly become known, an announcement to the congregation would likely be appropriate in order to protect its reputation.
The Watchtower magazine, November 15, 2008, page 22
We should be careful that our conduct does not bring reproach on Jehovah and his organization.
The Watchtower magazine, March 15, 2013, page 10
It is not that many Christians in the congregations are walking in badness or becoming “bad figs,” as were many Jews back then. On the contrary, God’s servants today are a devoted, clean people.
The Watchtower magazine, October 2017, page 22
We view it as an honor to live up to Jehovah’s high moral standard, maintaining conduct that in no way brings reproach on his name. Thus, we may succeed in escaping Jehovah’s judgment against those who deliberately violate his law.
Next: 4f – Normal Family
- The Watchtower magazine, May 15, 1988, page 17 – “This foretold exaltation of pure religion is taking place at God’s true temple, the realm of his worship. (John 4:23, 24) But what are “the desirable things of all the nations”? They are the thousands of lovers of righteousness who react favorably to the Kingdom-preaching work. From all nations and races, they are streaming to ‘the mountain of Jehovah’s house,’ becoming his baptized witnesses and part of the international “great crowd.” (Isaiah 2:2-4; Revelation 7:9) Those praising Jehovah as part of his earthly organization are clean, moral, godly persons—most desirable indeed.” ↑