How can believers resolve disputes without involving secular courts? Setting the Scene in Corinth “Instead, one brother goes to law against another, and this in front of unbelievers!” (1 Corinthians 6:6) Paul is stunned that Christians are dragging family matters into secular courts. He reminds them—and us—that disputes inside the church can and should be settled inside the church. Core Principle from 1 Corinthians 6 • God expects His people to handle disagreements in a way that protects unity and displays His wisdom. • “Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? … Are you not competent to judge trivial cases?” (6:2) • “Is there really no one among you wise enough to arbitrate between his brothers?” (6:5) Why God Warns Against Secular Lawsuits • They expose family quarrels “in front of unbelievers,” damaging our gospel witness. • They invite worldly standards—money, revenge, winning—into decisions that should reflect grace and truth. • They ignore the spiritual resources God already provides through His Word and His people. • They often escalate conflict instead of restoring relationships. Practical Steps toward God-Honoring Reconciliation 1. Examine your heart first – “Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8) – Ask: Am I seeking restoration or vindication? 2. Follow Jesus’ three-step path (Matthew 18:15-17) – Go privately: “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately.” – Add witnesses: “Take one or two others along.” – Involve the church: “Tell it to the church” for final mediation. 3. Use the right tone – “A gentle answer turns away wrath.” (Proverbs 15:1) – “Wisdom from above is … peace-loving, gentle, accommodating.” (James 3:17) 4. Seek help from spiritually mature believers – “You who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness.” (Galatians 6:1) – Elders, pastors, and seasoned believers can serve as impartial mediators. 5. Aim for mutual honor, not personal victory – “Make every effort to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) – “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:17-18) Tools the Church Already Possesses • The Holy Spirit—convicts hearts and guides conversations. • Scripture—provides clear standards for right and wrong. • Wise leadership—elders and mature members appointed to shepherd conflicts. • The Lord’s Supper—regular reminder that we are one Body, reconciled by Christ. • Corporate prayer and fasting—softens hearts and invites divine intervention. When Agreement Still Feels Impossible • Consider a biblically minded Christian arbitration ministry—still within the family of faith, not the secular court. • Accept losses if necessary for the sake of testimony: “Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?” (1 Corinthians 6:7) • Trust God’s justice; He sees and repays perfectly (Romans 12:19). A Witness to the World When believers resolve disputes in love, the church showcases the reconciling power of the gospel. Settling matters internally says to a watching world: Christ’s peace works, and His people live differently. |
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