Well, that is correct. Repenting and being forgiven do not discard the fact there are still earthly consequences for their actions - though I’m not sure prosecutions will take place for things that occurred well over a decade ago when he was himself a minor child. The incidents also did not involve sex or rape...that does not in any way diminish how bad what he did was, however, the effects and consequences on both the offender and the victim are much different. Sort of like breaking into someone’s home and stealing their valuables vs. burning the house and everything in it to the ground. The former is still reprehensible, and inexcusable and cannot be diminished for how bad this act is, however, the long-term effects and consequences are not as severe as the latter for both the perpetrator and the victims.
Aside from that, the decision to start that TV show really has to be called into question. The parents should have never done this knowing this was in the past as there was always a chance it could be dug up and get national scrutiny - putting back into the face of the victims with wide media prominence as well as their son who had apparently long moved on and overcame this demon - all being thrown back into his face - which never would have occurred. Seriously disturbing.
What I find particularly disturbing is how the application of “sharia law” (Christian version) has been applied and so this has all been “dealt with”. Remember - he who bears the sword bears it on God’s behalf. If there is a legal recourse available at this point, he should be prosecuted and jailed according to the laws of our society.
Another point I think may be pertinent here - there is an admonition to those who desire to take on leadership roles to be especially careful about things. Jimbob and Michelle holding themselves and their family up as some sort of godly ideal surely fits with that category.
Sadly, there may be undue glee and joy among “the enemy” for what has befallen the Duggars, but the parent’s behavior made it all possible. And Josh assuming a leadership role with a Christian advocacy group was also not a good idea. I wonder if he was vetted properly by the FRC?
PS - Keep an eye on Jimbob. The son may be exhibiting learned behavior.