Jehovah’s Witness Elders are Cautioned to Keep Their Mouth Shut!

Announcement
September 27, 2021

FOR ELDERS

1. COVID-19 Vaccinations and Respect for Superior Authorities: Out of concern and
   love, we are sharing the following important information. (1 Cor. 12:25) As a result of the
   ongoing pandemic, secular authorities in an increasing number of lands are mandating or
   strongly encouraging that their citizens be vaccinated for COVID-19. The recent Governing
   Body updates have helped Jehovah’s people understand the thinking of the faithful slave on
   this matter.
2. Branch offices have reported that some elders have voiced strong personal opinions
   against COVID-19 vaccination. Why is this of concern? Romans 13:1 says that “the existing
   authorities stand placed in their relative positions by God.” Also, the study note on Romans
   13:5 says: “A Christian submits to human governments when a command does not contradict God’s laws.” Romans 13:2 states: “Whoever opposes the [secular] authority has taken a stand against the arrangement of God.” Thus, elders should be careful not to voice personal opinions that contradict direction from the superior authorities. If an elder has been doing so, now is the time to stop. (Matt. 22:21; Rom. 13:4-7) Otherwise, he could become guilty of causing divisions in the congregation.

3. At Romans 16:17, elders are admonished: “Keep your eye on those who create divisions
   and causes for stumbling contrary to the teaching that you have learned, and avoid them.”
   Thus, elders have a Scriptural responsibility to counsel any, including fellow elders, who cause divisions in the congregation. (Gal. 6:1) Circuit overseers will closely monitor the situation. We commend you brothers for “holding firmly” to God’s Word, promoting unity in the congregation, and taking the lead in showing “honor” to the secular authorities. (Titus 1:9; 1 Pet. 2:13-17) We thank you for your cooperation in this matter, and we take this opportunity to send our warm Christian love.

FOR COORDINATORS OF THE BODIES OF ELDERS
Announcement for Elders: Please arrange for the body of elders to meet this week to
discuss the announcement for elders along with the cited scriptures.

2021-09-27-covid-vaccinationsDownload