42. Navigating Disputes within the Christian Community 1 Co 6:1–6

This passage is truly intriguing. Paul presents a series of 7 consecutive questions within this text, each followed by a condemnation or a negative undertone fact statement. As we delve into this passage, it becomes apparent that there is a shift in topics. As we progress through this book, we will uncover eleven concerns that Paul addresses. Up to this point, he has tackled the following issues:

Divisions and Disunity: Paul confronts the problem of divisions within the church, where different factions align themselves with various leaders (e.g., Paul, Apollos, Cephas). He underscores the significance of unity in Christ and warns against factionalism.

Immorality and Sexual Sin: Paul addresses sexual immorality within the church, including a specific case where a man is involved in an inappropriate relationship with his stepmother. Paul rebukes the church for tolerating such behavior and urges them to uphold purity.

We're about to explore the next area of concern for Paul about the Corinthian Church. This pertains to lawsuits among believers. In the text, Paul discusses the issue of believers resorting to secular courts for legal disputes instead of resolving conflicts within the church. He advocates for settling disputes within the church community to preserve its reputation.

However, Paul's approach to addressing these issues might seem unconventional. He fires off a volley of six questions in rapid succession. But why? Paul's questions are meant to challenge the Corinthians' behavior, underscore their spiritual authority and capability, and ultimately urge them to resolve their conflicts within the Christian community rather than seek judgment from worldly sources. Let's take a closer look at the nature and purpose of each question.

1. "Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous and not before the saints?"

Nature: Questioning the Corinthians' decision to seek legal judgment from non-believers instead of fellow Christians ("saints").

Purpose: Introduces the issue and emphasizes the inappropriate choice of venue for conflict resolution.

2. "Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters?" (two questions)

Nature: Points out believers' future role in judging the world and questions their reluctance to handle even minor disputes within the church.

Purpose: Highlights believers' spiritual authority and their capability to resolve internal matters.

3. "Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life?" (two questions)

Nature: Extends the argument by suggesting that believers will judge even higher beings (angels), indicating their capacity to handle earthly issues.

Purpose: Reinforces the idea that they should be competent to resolve conflicts within their community.

4. If then you have judgments concerning things pertaining to this life, do you appoint those who are least esteemed by the church to judge?

Nature: Questions the wisdom of choosing individuals with lower standing in the church to make judgments.

Purpose: Challenges their choice of judges and highlights the inconsistency in their decision-making.

5. I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you, not even one, who will be able to judge between his brethren?

Nature: Expresses strong disapproval and questions the lack of a wise person among them.

Purpose: Emphasizes their failure to appoint a suitable mediator and underscores the need for internal resolution.

Paul's central message in this passage is a strong rebuke to the Corinthians. He criticizes them for resorting to secular courts to settle disputes rather than resolving conflicts within their Christian community. He emphasizes that believers possess the authority and wisdom to judge and reconcile matters. Paul condemns their behavior, as it exposes their disagreements to non-believers, potentially damaging the church's reputation and unity.

This passage underscores the significance of prioritizing unity within the body of believers. Christians are encouraged to recognize their place in a spiritual family and address conflicts first within the church, seeking resolution guided by biblical principles. Through their relationship with Christ, believers are entrusted with spiritual authority and wisdom, equipping them to handle disputes with humility and love.

Though Paul's reference to believers judging the world and angels may be puzzling, it reinforces the idea of valuing spiritual concerns above worldly matters. Christians are prompted to address conflicts according to eternal principles and values, demonstrating a focus on what truly matters.

In this context, personal responsibility holds great importance. Each believer is urged to act in ways that honor God, contributing to the health and unity of the church. Christians can present a positive example to the world by adhering to biblical principles when resolving conflicts. Handling disputes with love and aligning with Christ's teachings can showcase the transformative influence of faith.

It's important to address a clear distinction here: the context of this passage pertains to civil disputes within the church, not criminal offenses. For example, cases involving sexual predators or child molesters within the church today must unquestionably adhere to the legal framework of the land. Such offenders should face full prosecution as dictated by the law. This clarification is vital as some groups, including certain cults and perhaps even a few churches, have been known to misinterpret this passage to shield criminals from rightful prosecution.