Dispute resolution

Hello everyone,

How are you doing on this day? I hope well and bubbling in the Lord. We thank God for His goodness, faithfulness, lovingkindness and tendermercies. Paul continues his letter to the Corinthians on the issue of brethren taking each other to court, saying:

Primary Text

“I say this to move you to shame. Can it be that there really is not one man among you who [in action is governed by piety and integrity and] is wise and competent enough to decide [the private grievances, disputes, and quarrels] between members of the brotherhood, But brother goes to law against brother, and that before [Gentile judges who are] unbelievers [without faith or trust in the Gospel of Christ]?” 1 Corinthians 6v5-6 (AMP)

“I am saying this to shame you. Isn’t there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues? But instead, one believer sues another – right in front of unbelievers!” 1 Corinthians 6v5-6 (NLT)

Paul is asking the church, isn’t there someone among you who is wise enough to decide these issues? Beloved, do you have an issue with someone? Hold on. Don’t rush on and sue your brother. Calm down. Isn’t there someone in your local church assembly you can go to who is wise enough to decide on the issue for the two of you or the group of you? Why take the issue to the court of law?

Supplementary Text

“When you are on the way to court with your accuser, try to settle the matter before you get there. Otherwise, your accuser may drag you before the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, who will throw you into prison. And if that happens, you won’t be free again until you have paid the very last penny.”” Luke 12v58-59 (NLT).

Prayer

Father, we thank You for Your Word. We thank You for Your grace and goodness. O God, we pray for the church of God, that You will help us to walk in love and extend mercy to one another in Jesus name, amen. We pray for wisdom in settling issues that arise among us in Jesus name, amen.