1 Corinthians 6:1-11 is Paul’s message to a man who files a lawsuit against his brother in Christ. The man apparently brought a fellow Christian to an unrighteous court to be judged by non-Christian morals. Paul makes it clear that Christians have the power to judge because of the future that God promises. Christians will be glorified by God on the last day and will be able to judge even the evil angels. However, the Corinthian church fails to judge even its members. This is similar to 1 Corinthians 5, where they could not judge the man who was in a relationship with his own stepmother. Paul says that it is already a shame to have a lawsuit against a brother or sister in Christ, and now to have it in an unrighteous court is even more shameful. He says that it is better to suffer than to go against a fellow Christian. He warns the church about their unrighteousness and unrepentance, but he assures them that there is forgiveness in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
What does this mean today? After reading this passage, I was curious if our church does church discipline and handle matters in the session. I think it’s really background work that is being done behind the scenes, but I think it is getting done. Sometimes, but rarely, I hear from my parents about church matters that are difficult and need prayer about these things. This stuff is pretty real even though it’s rare.
On another note, we go to an Asian church, so I’m sure that there are a few lawyers out there (or future law people Yein and Nick!). Why not help a brother or sister out in court? If legal action takes place in church, there needs to be people who can help resolve this in a just and good way.
I remember one time pretty recently, like within the past year, where a church member accidentally damaged our property. My parents explained that we don’t have to take legal action, but now I really look up to them because they are reflecting this passage. They suffered rather than filing a lawsuit. Thank you for being such great examples!
Thankfulness:
• Talking to my friend and being happy
• Spending time with God
• Parents
• Studying
• Discipleship later today!