Building Healthy Church Communities Part 9

Welcome back to Growing Healthy Church Communities! I’m Pastor Chris Lovell, and today, we’re investigating a passage from 1 Corinthians 6:1–11. In this scripture, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of believers taking their disputes before secular courts instead of resolving them within the church community.

Transcript

Welcome back to Growing Healthy Church Communities! I’m Pastor Chris Lovell, and today, we’re investigating a passage from 1 Corinthians 6:1–11. In this scripture, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of believers taking their disputes before secular courts instead of resolving them within the church community.

Paul begins by expressing his astonishment that members of the church are bringing their grievances against each other to be judged by the ungodly, rather than by fellow believers. He emphasizes that as the Lord’s people, we are destined to judge the world and even angels, highlighting our capacity to handle disputes among ourselves.

Paul writes:

If any of you has a dispute with another, do you dare to take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord’s people? Or do you not know that the Lord’s people will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life! Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church? I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!

The core of Paul’s message is that taking internal church matters before secular authorities not only undermines the church’s authority but also damages its witness to the outside world. He challenges the Corinthians by asking if there is truly no one wise enough among them to mediate these disputes. The fact that they are suing each other in front of unbelievers is, to Paul, a complete defeat. He suggests that it would be better to be wronged or cheated than to harm the church’s testimony.

In today’s context, this passage underscores the importance of making every effort to resolve conflicts within the church community. When disagreements arise, we should seek to handle them in a Christ-like manner, prioritizing reconciliation and unity. This approach not only preserves the integrity of the church but also serves as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Paul is most likely relating his comments to Jesus’ instructions on resolving conflicts within the church community.

Jesus instructs: “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” (Matthew 18:15 to 17)

Approaching the individual privately to discuss the issue emphasizes the need for discretion and aims to resolve the matter without involving others. If the person doesn’t respond, bring along one or two others. These individuals serve as witnesses and can provide additional perspectives, ensuring that the discussion remains fair and objective. If the matter remains unresolved, present it to the broader church community. This step underscores the seriousness of the issue and seeks collective wisdom for resolution.

Finally If the individual still refuses to listen, Jesus advises treating them as “a pagan or a tax collector.” In the cultural context of that time, this meant recognizing a separation due to unrepentance, while still maintaining a posture of love and hope for eventual reconciliation.

This process highlights the importance of the need to address conflicts directly and progressively, always aiming for restoration and unity within the church.

By following Jesus’ guidance described in Matthew 18, we can handle disputes in a manner that honors God, promotes healing, and strengthens the bonds within our church community.

We may know that when internal disagreements pop up, it’s best to resolve them among ourselves. But there are times when the situation is so serious that we need to bring in external authorities. Think about cases involving criminal behavior—like sexual abuse or fraud. In these instances, it’s not just important but absolutely necessary to report these matters to civil authorities. This ensures that victims are protected and justice is served.

Acting in this way aligns with the biblical principle of being “above reproach.”

In 1 Timothy 3:2, Paul emphasizes that an overseer must be above reproach, highlighting the importance of integrity and accountability within the church. By addressing criminal actions transparently and responsibly, we uphold the church’s moral integrity and maintain public trust.

So, while we aim to handle most disputes internally, let’s remember that in certain situations, involving external authorities is not just the right thing to do—it’s imperative. This approach ensures the safety of our community and reflects our commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus.

In church communities that are organic and relational , relationships are often more personal and less hierarchical. Decisions are typically made collectively, and there’s a strong emphasis on community and mutual accountability. While this fosters close-knit fellowship, it can present challenges when addressing serious misconduct.

Even in informal settings, it’s crucial to have clear guidelines for behavior and procedures for addressing misconduct. This doesn’t mean creating rigid rules but rather agreeing upon shared expectations that reflect biblical principles. For instance, the community can collectively affirm commitments to integrity, respect, and the protection of all members.

Mutual accountability is vital. Regular check-ins or small group discussions can provide spaces where members feel safe to express concerns. If someone observes behavior that raises red flags, they should feel empowered to address it directly with the individual, following the guidance of Matthew 18:15–17.

Organic relational church communities thrive on trust and openness. By fostering a culture where concerns can be voiced without fear of retribution, the community can address issues proactively. Regular discussions about ethical behavior, consent, and the importance of safeguarding can reinforce the community’s commitment to protecting its members.

So while organic, relational church structures may lack formal policies, they can still effectively address serious issues by fostering a culture of accountability, establishing clear behavioral expectations, and engaging external authorities when necessary. By doing so, they uphold the safety and integrity of their community, reflecting the love and justice central to the Gospel.

Thank you for joining me in this important and sensitive discussion. Let’s continue to strive for love and authenticity within our church communities in order to provide safe a loving spaces for spiritual and emotional well being. Until next time, may God bless you abundantly.