One of my favorite classes at PTP (Polishing the Pulpit) examines case studies for elderships. The format involves groups of men examining real dilemmas faced at unnamed congregations. The exercise is used to prepare men to serve as elders and make Godly decisions.
In one case study, a gentleman had been guilty of cleaning out a congregation’s bank account, then continuing on as if nothing had happened. The dilemma was what to do about such a gentleman. In jest, I made the comment that out in Wyoming we would introduce the man to Western Justice. Could something be so simple?
Romans 13:1 – “Let every person be in subjection to the governing
authorities…”
Different times and different lands have had varying systems of justice. Some may be harsh or lenient, quick or slow, even just or corrupt.
“We must obey God rather than men” – Acts 5:29.
Though we may have the desire to take justice in our own hands, there are authorities who enact justice. A rash decision by a mob of angry individuals would not be lawful or Godly. Remember Revelation 6:9-11:
“And when he opened the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of them that had been slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: and they cried with a great voice, saying, How long, O Master, the holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And there was given them to each one a white robe; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little time, until their fellow-servants also and their brethren, who should be killed even as they were, should have fulfilled their course.“
God will judge all men someday, with righteous judgment, none will be missed. We must trust His time frame and His good Will toward man.