Reproof involves sins that could lead to shunning, but for which the individual is deemed repentant.“Questions From Readers”, The Watchtower, January 1, 1983 pp. 30–31. Reproof is given "before all onlookers", based on their interpretation of 1 Timothy 5:20. If the sin is private in nature, the reproof would involve just the individual(s) involved. If the sin is known generally by the entire congregation or the community, an announcement is made informing the congregation that the person has been reproved. Later, without disclosing names or private details, one of the elders gives a separate talk ensuring that the congregation understands the sin, its dangers, and how to avoid it.“Repentance Leading Back to God”, The Watchtower, September 1, 1981, p. 27 par. 30.
Reproof involves sins that could lead to shunning, but for which the individual is deemed repentant.“Questions From Readers”, The Watchtower, January 1, 1983 pp. 30–31. Reproof is given "before all onlookers", based on their interpretation of 1 Timothy 520. If the sin is private in nature, the reproof would involve just the individual(s) involved. If the sin is known ge:nerally by the entire congr,egation or the community, an announcement is made informing the congregation that the person has been reproved. Later, without disclosing names or private details, one of the elders gives a separate talk ensuring that the congregation understands the sin, its dangers, and how to avoid it.“Repentance Leading Back to God”, The Watchtower, September 1, 1981 p. 27 par. 30.