What happens to a Jehovah's witness if they have premarital sex or even think about it?

Question

I heard they have to appear before a board of elders if they even have thoughts about...

Answer 1

A baptized Jehovah’s Witness who engages in serious sin must repent and ‘turn around’. The only way for a Witness to be assured that he does this in a matter acceptable to God and Christ is by seeking counsel and encouragement from congregation elders. In most cases, a committee of three elders will work with the erring one to recognize the pattern of his behavior that led to the serious sin, so as to help him to understand how he can avoid that in the future.

(James 5:14) Is there anyone [spiritually] sick among you? Let him call the older men of the congregation to him, and let them pray over him, [metaphorically] greasing him with oil in the name of Jehovah.


These elders will also try to determine whether and which restrictions are appropriate for the erring one; in most cases “restrictions” may simply be several weeks or perhaps months without commenting or giving talks at congregation meetings.

While unwise, a Christian who merely “thinks about” fornication has not committed a “serious sin”.

Answer 2

Only Jehovah knows our hearts and minds. Let's face it being human is being imperfect. We all have thoughts that we would shrink away from in the light of day. It is of course possible to control the majority of our thoughts and to try to keep a clean mind.

Now as for sexual immorality. It is important for someone to come forward and talk with the Elders and/or any/all involved parties. It is incredibly hard to move on after grevious wrongdoing even in the best of circumstances. By going to one's Parents, Mate or in this instance also the Elders a person can get support to move onwards.

It is not exactly the same as being put on trial or before a board of inquiry as some view it. It is a matter of realising we have a problem and need help. It also allows the Elders, as representatives for the congregation, to have a feel for the needs of the congregation. Plus it is their sad duty to help maintain the cleanliness of the congregation and so at times, when the person is unrepentant and unwilling to dicist from the sinful activity then it falls to them to disfellowship the person.

Answer 3

Considering the elders can't read minds, I would say no. No one is brought before a board for thoughts.

Answer 4

Having been there,. in 1982, I can tell you that the elders traveled 200 miles to inform me of their decision and how I could go about appealing it. I didn't.

My mother does talk to me, just not about Bible issues. I also have a co-worker and my mechanic are witnesses.

Consider in comparison, teenager who rebel against their parents. They refuse to follow their parents teachings about not using drugs, staying out all night, and being sexually active. They bring drugs into the home and perhaps a few sex partners. So, what do the parents do? Do they tolerate it, hoping the teen will change, and that the police will not raid the place, first? No, they put the teen out, and concentrate on the other children who are listening to them.