1 Corinthians 6:4-6
4 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? 5 I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? 6 But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!
Paul returns to the theme of wisdom. The source of Christian wisdom is the Holy Spirit, who will teach us the mind of Christ. There is a new level of revelation available to those who abide in Christ. Those who give leadership and spiritual discernment in the church must walk the talk. What qualifies one to settle disputes? One who is wise in the ways of God. How does one become wise? Through studying the teachings of Christ and teachings about Christ (knowledge) and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform this person into the likeness of the cross (wisdom). This person must also be discerning (understanding) and see the issues. Paul is confident that there is someone in the Corinthian church who models this. A terrible testimony results when Christians take each other to court. Where is love in this? We must keep in mind here the high point of the letter in ch. 13. If believers truly love each other, then should disputes even happen? There is only one reason Paul gives for disputes in the church: when someone is teaching wrong doctrine (see ch. 11). How to apply Paul’s directions to the Corinthians in our own lives is challenging. But the principles are clear: matters between Christians should be settled in the fellowship of the church and be controlled by the highest value of love.
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