A Title No More

Buckingham Palace announced that Prince Andrew is relinquishing all remaining royal titles, including that of Duke of York. The voluntary act, which is a step short of being formally stripped of the titles by the parliament, comes after additional revelations that Prince Andrew’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein was more extensive than previously admitted. Epstein died in jail in 2019, but the fallout from his nefarious activities continue, including the 2022 conviction of his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year prison term.

Analysis and eternal perspective: It is one of the most tawdry and controversial stories of our day, and it continues to produce sub-stories and additional revelation of victimization. This most recent development involving Prince Andrew will generate disproportionate attention because of the significance of the Royal Family. As in our previous story, it is certainly appropriate that all responsible for the atrocities committed in this decades-long case be brought to justice. 

However, you and I should not lose sight of the sometimes-overlooked aspect of justice, which is the restoration of the victims. God’s Word repeatedly reminds us to defend the cause of the oppressed (Is. 1:17, Ps. 82:3-4), of which there are many in this situation.

While it is difficult to know exactly how to carry out this command in a story like this one, you should start by being in fervent prayer for those who were harmed. Pray for their continued healing and restoration, and that they would be drawn into the comfort of a relationship with their Creator. Commit also to holding fast to the truth that all responsible for these evil acts should be held accountable.

The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.