What principles from Exodus 18:16 can guide us in resolving disputes today? Setting the Stage “Whenever they have a dispute, it comes to me, and I judge between the parties and make known the statutes of God and His laws.” (Exodus 18:16) Moses describes his daily routine: people line up with their conflicts, he listens, and he settles each matter by declaring God’s revealed truth. Though the culture and setting differ from ours, the Spirit-breathed principle remains timeless. Principle 1 – Bring Every Conflict Under God’s Authority • Moses never relied on personal opinion; he “make[s] known the statutes of God and His laws.” • Today, Scripture is still the final standard. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is God-breathed... so that the man of God may be complete.” – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Practical takeaway: Before debating feelings, ask, “What has God already said about this?” Principle 2 – Seek Impartial, God-fearing Mediators • The people trusted Moses because he judged under divine direction. • Deuteronomy 17:8-11 shows the same pattern at Israel’s centralized court. • For us, a respected believer or church elder can fill that role (Matthew 18:15-17). • Key traits to look for—James 3:17: purity, peace-loving, considerate, full of mercy, impartial, sincere. Principle 3 – Clarify the Issue, Then Apply the Word • Moses “judge[s] between the parties” first—he listens, discerns facts, separates emotions from evidence. • Only after the facts are clear does he “make known the statutes.” • Modern application: – Listen carefully (Proverbs 18:13). – State the real point of contention in plain words. – Match the situation with specific biblical teaching. Principle 4 – Aim for Restoration, Not Victory • God’s statutes promote covenant harmony, not personal triumph. • Matthew 5:24 urges reconciliation before worship. • 1 Corinthians 6:7 reminds believers it’s better to be wronged than to disgrace the gospel through protracted fights. Principle 5 – Teach so People Can Judge Future Cases Themselves • By explaining God’s laws, Moses equipped the nation to handle many issues without him. • Jethro will soon advise him to train additional leaders (Exodus 18:20-22). • We should disciple others in biblical conflict resolution, multiplying peacemakers. Putting It Together 1. Start every dispute-conversation with open Bibles and prayerful hearts. 2. Involve a wise, impartial believer if needed. 3. Establish facts, then locate God’s timeless principle that addresses them. 4. Pursue reconciliation and gospel witness above personal vindication. 5. Pass these practices on, so the next disagreement finds a prepared, Scripture-shaped community. |
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