Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of law-suits and legal disputes was addressed within the framework of the Mosaic Law and the teachings of the New Testament. The Bible provides guidance on how believers should handle conflicts and seek justice, emphasizing principles of fairness, integrity, and reconciliation.Old Testament Context The Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites, included detailed instructions on resolving disputes and administering justice. Judges were appointed to hear cases and make decisions based on God's laws. Exodus 18:21-22 describes the appointment of capable men to serve as judges: "But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times." The Law emphasized impartiality and fairness in legal proceedings. Deuteronomy 16:18-20 instructs, "Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you." New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles addressed the issue of disputes among believers. Jesus taught the importance of reconciliation and resolving conflicts privately. In Matthew 5:25 , He advises, "Reconcile quickly with your adversary while you are still on the way to court. Otherwise, your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison." The Apostle Paul further elaborates on handling disputes within the Christian community. In 1 Corinthians 6:1-7 , Paul admonishes believers for taking their disputes before secular courts: "If any of you has a grievance against another, how dare he go to law before the unrighteous instead of before the saints! Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? ... Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church! ... The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?" Principles for Believers The Bible encourages believers to seek resolution through wisdom, patience, and mutual understanding. Proverbs 25:8-9 advises, "Do not bring hastily to court, for what will you do in the end if your neighbor puts you to shame? Argue your case with your neighbor without betraying another’s confidence." Believers are called to live peaceably with others and to pursue reconciliation over litigation. Romans 12:18 states, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." The emphasis is on maintaining unity and love within the body of Christ, reflecting the character of God in all interactions. Conclusion The biblical approach to law-suits underscores the importance of justice, integrity, and reconciliation. While legal systems are necessary for maintaining order, Scripture encourages believers to resolve disputes within the community of faith, prioritizing peace and unity. Greek 2917. krima -- a judgment ... Word Origin from krino Definition a judgment NASB Word Usage condemnation (8), judgment (15), judgments (1), lawsuits (1), sentence (1), sentence of ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2917.htm - 7k Library Problems of Casuistry The First Epistle to the Corinthians We are not Binding Heavy Burdens and Laying them Upon Your ... On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xix. 17, "If Thou Wouldest Enter ... Correspondence of St. Chrysostom with the Bishop of Rome. Samech. What are the Duties Required in the Eighth Commandment? What are the Sins Forbidden in the Eighth Commandment? Miracle Performed by Silvanus Bishop of Troas Formerly of ... But Perhaps those Seem to You Weak-Minded and Silly... Thesaurus Lawsuits (4 Occurrences)...Lawsuits (4 Occurrences). 1 Corinthians 6:7 Therefore it is already altogether a defect in you, that you have lawsuits one with another. ... /l/lawsuits.htm - 7k Law-suits (1 Occurrence) Defect (62 Occurrences) Lawyer (5 Occurrences) Defective (2 Occurrences) Oath (286 Occurrences) Law-teachers (1 Occurrence) Lawsuit (4 Occurrences) Wronged (22 Occurrences) Resources What is Orthodox Judaism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should Christians learn from the Mosaic Law? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between the ceremonial law, the moral law, and the judicial law in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Law-suits (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 6:7 Subtopics Related Terms |