What other scriptures emphasize resolving disputes within the Christian community? Framing 1 Corinthians 6:4 “Do you appoint as judges those of no standing in the church?” Paul’s challenge is clear: everyday disputes between believers are to be handled inside the family of faith, not shipped out to secular courts. Echoes in Jesus’ Teaching • Matthew 18:15-17 – “Go and confront him alone.” → Private, step-by-step reconciliation. • Matthew 5:23-24 – Leave the gift, be reconciled first. • Matthew 5:9 – Peacemakers are called blessed. • Luke 12:57-59 – Settle quickly before matters escalate. Counsel from Paul’s Other Letters • Romans 12:17-18 – Live at peace with everyone, avoid repaying evil. • 1 Corinthians 1:10 – Be perfectly united in mind and thought. • Galatians 6:1 – Restore the stumbling believer gently. • Ephesians 4:1-3 – Bear with one another, keep the Spirit’s unity. • Colossians 3:12-14 – Forgive grievances; love binds perfectly. • 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 – Correct firmly yet as brothers, not enemies. Wisdom from the Other Apostles • James 3:17-18 – Heavenly wisdom sows peace and reaps righteousness. • 1 Peter 3:8-11 – Be sympathetic, humble, seek peace and pursue it. • Jude 20-23 – Build each other up, show mercy mixed with caution. Practical Steps Drawn from Scripture 1. Search your own heart first (Matthew 7:3-5). 2. Approach privately and humbly (Matthew 18:15). 3. If needed, invite one or two witnesses (Matthew 18:16). 4. Bring it before respected church leaders (1 Corinthians 6:5). 5. Submit to wise, biblically-grounded counsel (Proverbs 15:22). 6. Aim for restoration, not victory (Galatians 6:1). 7. Celebrate reconciliation as a testimony to the gospel (John 13:35). Why It Matters • Protects the church’s witness before a watching world. • Deepens relationships through grace and accountability. • Trains believers to judge righteously, preparing us to “judge angels” (1 Corinthians 6:3). • Honors Christ, the ultimate reconciler, who brought us peace through His cross. |
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