Lawsuits Against Believers

1 Corinthians 6: 1-8

English Standard Version Chapter 6

Lawsuits Against Believers

6 When one of you has a grievance against another, does he dare go to law before the unrighteous instead of the saints? 2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? 3 Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life! 4 So if you have such cases, why do you lay them before those who have no standing in the church? 5 I say this to your shame. Can it be that there is no one among you wise enough to settle a dispute between the brothers, 6 but brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers? 7 To have lawsuits at all with one another is already a defeat for you. Why not rather suffer wrong? Why not rather be defrauded? 8 But you yourselves wrong and defraud—even your own brothers!

More Than Win or Lose: The Call to Christian Unity

Bible Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:1-8

Summary: In this section, Paul rebukes the Corinthian believers for their tendency to engage in legal battles against one another, pointing out that such actions reflect a failure to embody the love and grace of Christ. He encourages them to consider the implications of their disputes on the witness of the church and the nature of their relationships, advocating for resolution through humility and dialogue rather than confrontation.

Application: This sermon can help Christians appreciate the importance of addressing conflicts within the church community through love and understanding. By fostering a spirit of reconciliation, believers can prioritize relationships and mutual respect over personal grievances, reflecting Christ's character in all interactions.

Teaching: The teaching emphasizes the need for believers to pursue peaceful conflict resolution, showcasing how the Gospel model of grace and forgiveness can guide interactions even in disagreement. It speaks to the importance of living out unity in the face of differences, cultivating a culture of grace within the church community.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage points to Christ as the ultimate peacemaker whose sacrifice embodies forgiveness and reconciliation. It reminds believers that, through Christ, they have the ability to overcome obstacles in relationships and work towards unity, reflecting His love and mission.

Big Idea: Our commitment to community extends beyond personal victory; it calls us to embody the love of Christ, pursuing peace and reconciliation above all else.

Recommended Study: In preparing for this sermon, you might explore various commentaries on the historical context of legal practices in the early church and how they informed Paul’s teachings. Consider diving into thematic studies on reconciliation and community within the New Testament found in your Logos library. Also, examine how Paul’s admonitions can be applied today, reflecting on contemporary issues of conflict within the church and the necessity for a Gospel-centered approach.

1. Prioritize Peaceful Resolution

1 Corinthians 6:1-3

You could discuss how Paul highlights the inappropriate nature of Christians suing one another, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes internally within the church. This segment suggests believers are equipped with divine wisdom through Christ to make judgments. Perhaps remind your congregation that prioritizing unity and reconciliation under Christ reflects His ultimate work of peace and justice.

2. Protect Our Public Witness

1 Corinthians 6:4-6

Maybe focus on Paul's concern for the church's witness to the outside world when internal conflicts are aired publicly through lawsuits. This passage underlines the importance of addressing issues with grace and understanding, reflecting Christ’s love. You might suggest that believers have the opportunity to shine a light in the world by handling conflicts in a manner that honors God’s call for unity.

3. Practice Sacrificial Love

1 Corinthians 6:7-8

Perhaps conclude with Paul’s radical call to accept ‘wrong’ or be ‘defrauded’ rather than bringing disputes to court. This expresses the sacrificial love of Christ, who chose humility over retribution. Encourage your congregation to emulate Christ’s example and consider how laying aside personal grievances can foster deeper unity and connection within the church body.