Scripture

“When any of you has a grievance against another, do you dare to take it to court before the unrighteous, instead of taking it before the saints?” 1 Corinthians 6:1

Reflections

Have you ever heard the phrase “air your dirty laundry in public”?  It refers to making personal or sensitive matters public when they would be better handled privately—especially the unsavory details of one’s life.

Within the household of faith, some matters are best handled “in house.”  That does not mean they should be ignored or excused.  They must be addressed but addressed in faithful and appropriate ways.

In Corinth, believers were taking other believers to court, asking nonbelievers to settle their disputes.  Imagine how that appeared to the wider community.  What kind of witness was that?

Christ Jesus has given us a better way.  In Matthew 18, he lays out clear guidance for resolving conflict: speak directly and privately with the person who has wronged you, seeking reconciliation.  If that fails, involve one or two other believers to help restore the relationship.  If necessary, then bring the matter before the larger community.

When we make things right through reconciliation and not retribution, we become powerful examples of the way of Christ Jesus.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for showing me the better way.  Help me to seek reconciliation and to make things right rather than to seek vengeance.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11