Potentially Threatening

Dr. Bob,

I was telling my husband about this situation, he reminded me that if someone is a counselor or Pastor, it's actually the law to report any verbalizations of a killing list. If you suspect or they give any reason to believe whatsoever that you must report it. I personally think it's premature, but evidently you have to.

 

First of all, I would call on all who read this board to seek the Lord's face and pray that He will give you the wisdom and grace to handle the situation. I certainly will be in prayer for you.
I don't want to "arm chair quarterback", as you are the man on the spot...
A couple of questions though:
Is the threat credible? (i.e. motive, opportunity, abilty, etc.)
Is this boy a "clear and present danger" to himself or others?
If so, then then I would have to consider the safety of those who are being threatened (I'm sure this has crossed your mind). With the boy's best interests at heart, perhaps going to the authorities now can prevent a life in prison later.
I have seen more than one life turned around for God's glory in the jail.
God bless you, brother...remember Romans 8:28!

 

Bob,

My wife and I serve in a nouthetic counseling ministry, so this is in my corner for sure.

I don't know the Law in the vacant West, but here in the Dark and Bloody Ground (Caintuck), state law requires pastors and counselors to report certain things to the police (sexual and physical abuse of children, threats of violence to specific people, etc.), and this is one of them. Of course, knowing that, I have to inform counselees up front that such things are an exception to confidentiality rules.

In addition, since I am a public school teacher, I'd have to report that regardless of the circumstances.

I young pastor friend of mine is about to be booted out of his church because he followed state law in reporting a deacon who had molested generations of girls in his church. Previous pastors knew and ignored the fact.

Sticky wicket.

 

Major ....whoaa, that's really crazy.