The Bible gives clear instruction that believers should not take one another to secular courts to resolve disputes. Paul addressed this directly in his letter to the Corinthians:
“Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints?” (1 Corinthians 6:1)
This rebuke highlights that civil litigation among believers is a failure to handle conflicts within the body of Christ. Paul continues:
“Do you not know that the saints will judge the world?… Are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters?” (1 Corinthians 6:2–3)
Paul’s reasoning is that if believers are destined to judge the world and even angels, they should certainly be capable of settling ordinary disputes among themselves. Taking these matters before unbelievers undermines the witness and unity of the church:
“I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you, not even one, who will be able to judge between his brethren?” (1 Corinthians 6:5)
Paul then elevates the standard of humility and sacrifice:
“Now therefore, it is already an utter failure for you that you go to law against one another. Why do you not rather accept wrong? Why do you not rather let yourselves be cheated?” (1 Corinthians 6:7)
The emphasis is not on getting justice at all costs but on preserving love and unity within the church. Christians are called to handle disputes with grace, forgiveness, and a willingness to suffer wrong rather than bring reproach upon Christ.
This does not mean all legal action is sinful. In some cases, such as criminal acts, protection of the vulnerable, or defending the truth; legal involvement may be necessary. However, believers should exhaust all biblical avenues of reconciliation first:
“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone… But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more… And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church.” (Matthew 18:15–17)
The primary goal is restoration, not revenge or personal gain. Lawsuits between believers over trivial or personal matters contradict the example and teaching of Christ.
“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.” (Philippians 2:3)
Christians are to reflect the humility, mercy, and love of Jesus in all conflicts, seeking peace and righteousness over personal victory.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
