Making Righteous Judgments (Modified Talk)

The Insight book makes this illuminating observation about Jehovah’s righteousness:

“Jehovah himself is called ‘the abiding place of righteousness.’ (Jeremiah 50:7) He is therefore the Righteous One, and all righteousness on the part of his creatures comes from their relationship with him.”

While tonight’s material specifically applies to congregation elders, we all have the ability to learn about Bible principles that can help us to make righteous judgments in imitation of Jehovah.

The inspired writer Moses outlines the first Bible principle we're concentrating on tonight in Deuteronomy 16:18-19. (Read)

Firstly, elders must be impartial when making judgments (Acts 10:34-35). Bribes/favors should not be allowed to pervert justice or make us blind to wrongdoing and corruption. Nor should special treatment be shown to someone because of his/her race, ethnicity, familial relationship or socioeconomic status: we should be impartial like our God.

Secondly, elders must establish the facts when judging within the congregation. Notice Deuteronomy 17:4-6. (Read)

God adhered to this principle by presenting his Son to the world as mankind’s Savior. Jesus said: “In your own Law it is written, ‘The witness of two men is true.’ I am one that bears witness about myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness about me.”​—John 8:17, 18.

Thirdly, elders should get help for difficult cases of judgment. Deuteronomy 17:8-9 applied to ancient priests and judges. Similarly, elders may consult other elders, the circuit overseer or the branch. There is wisdom in a multitude of counselors (Proverbs 15:22).