CONSIDER WHO YOU ARE

Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are saints, consecrated to Jesus. Our sanctification stems from Jesus' sacrificial death for our sins, granting us forgiveness and setting us apart for God's purpose. Consequently, we are called to live in holiness. Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6:3-4 unveils a profound reality: we will judge angels in the future. As God's children, we are destined to be heirs, as prophesied in scriptures like Daniel 7:9, 13-14, 18, and 27. This truth resonates throughout the New Testament (Revelation 2:26, 5:9-10, 22:5, Luke 19:17). Given our identity in Christ, why would we resort to worldly courts or mediators to resolve conflicts when we have God's Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit?

The crucial question we should ask ourselves is this: are we living as saints, set apart for God? Our earthly existence serves as a testing ground for our future reign in God's kingdom. If we truly understand our identity and eternal inheritance in Christ, we will be motivated to settle disputes and cease our conflicts with one another.

CHOOSE TO GLORIFY GOD

In 1 Corinthians 6:5-6, Paul expresses his disappointment that some Christians were taking their disputes to secular courts, which is was as a poor reflection on their faith. He emphasizes the need for believers to handle conflicts in a way that honors God and avoids bringing shame to the church. Paul's message is clear: Christians should resolve their disputes internally and in consistence with their faith, following the principle of doing everything for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

COMMIT YOUR RIGHTS TO GOD

We often cling to our perceived rights and entitlements, but the Bible instructs us to relinquish and commit these rights to God. In 1 Corinthians 6:7-8, Paul admonishes the Corinthians for engaging in lawsuits against each other and urges them to prioritize reconciliation by surrendering their rights. The story of Abraham and Lot in Genesis 13:2,5-15 offers a valuable lesson. Despite the tension between their people, Abraham chose not to fight with Lot. He placed his faith in the One who bestows ultimate blessings and entrusted the situation to Him. Genesis 19 reveals that Abraham and his family were spared when the land Lot chose was destroyed (Sodom and Gomorrah). As Christians, we bear an identity that compels us to exhibit exemplary behavior before those who have yet to know Christ. Let us demonstrate our trust in a sovereign God to the world around us.

FOCUS ON GOD’S GRACE

In 1 Corinthians 6:8-9, Paul addresses a list of sins within the context of conflict resolution. He points out that some of the Corinthians were engaging in wrongful or unrighteous behavior, which is inconsistent with their identity as followers of Christ. He reminds them that they have been "washed, sanctified, and justified" in the name of Jesus through God's grace (v.11). Paul's message aligns with Titus 2:11-12, which emphasizes that God's grace not only brings salvation but also instructs believers to lead transformed lives. This transformation involves living righteously and rejecting ungodliness. It is God's grace that empowers believers to effectively address and resolve conflicts in a manner that reflects their faith.