The Epstein Saga
Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019, but the tawdry details of his life—and the circumstances surrounding his death—continue to dominate the headlines. In brief:
- Epstein was awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges when officials say he committed suicide in his cell. This official position was recently reiterated by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
- The DOJ also recently interviewed Ghislaine Maxwell, an Epstein associate who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking.
- The DOJ is also denying the existence of a “client list,” though dozens of high-profile politicians—both current and former, Republican and Democrat—have known ties to Epstein.
- There is bipartisan fervor for the release of additional information in the case, but the U.S. House adjourned early for its August recess to avoid being forced to take official action in the matter.
Analysis and eternal perspective: The above is a woefully incomplete recap of this tragic (and evil) story. While plenty of the details of the decades-long saga—and those involved—remain murky, we do know this: Scores of precious Image bearers were trafficked and abused by Epstein, Maxwell, and those who “associated” with them.
Our biblical admonition for a story like this includes clear guidance to both defend the oppressed and hold the offender accountable:
“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow” (Is. 1:17).
This is one of those stories that could easily overwhelm you, because there are so many layers you cannot fully unravel or impact. But there are so many straight-forward takeaways from this one verse we so often quote you can apply to your life today:
- Commit to growing in a habit of upright living
- Come to the aid of those who are victimized
- Advocate for accountability regardless of power or prestige
- Protect—as a father or mother—your children
- Protect—as though a father or mother—those without a father or mother
The tangled web of this story will not be quickly unraveled. But your impact on behalf of the vulnerable can begin immediately. Walk upright. Defend those vulnerable to oppression. Desire and pursue equal justice.
The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.