Thought for the Day

These verses warn us not to get into a public quarrel, but rather, to try to settle the problem with our neighbor first privately, since he could testify against us and take us to court. The Bible counsels us to avoid strife and lawsuits, if at all possible, since the Lord wants us to walk in peace with all people. It is much better to take a humble position and try to work out our differences with a neighbor. We are not to gossip about the matter, telling secrets to others, as this will only rile the neighbor more and he could cause more trouble. We have no guarantee as to the judge ruling in our favor and we may even be in the wrong to some degree. If we are proven wrong, the Bible tells us to agree with our adversary quickly, because he can deliver us to the judge and the judge can rule that we are to be given over to the officer to lock us in prison. If that should happen, we will not be released until we have paid our penalty in full. God especially desires that we maintain good relationships with our brothers and sisters in Christ. 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 urges us to lay down our rights rather than become involved in a court case with another believer before unbelievers. However, these scriptures do not preclude a person or company from defending themselves against false charges. As Christians, there is no room to side with people. We are to side with the Word of God. When my actions do not line up with His, I must side against myself and agree with Him. I must acknowledge my sin to God and my brother in Christ.

If a brother sins against me, I am to go to him privately, without involving others, since people often take up the offense of the first person they hear instead of listening impartially. If he acknowledges his sin and repents, I have gained a brother. This is only likely to happen if I go to him in love and humility. If he does not repent of an obvious sin, I am then to take two or three more people with me and talk with him again. The goal is to show him his error by speaking the truth in love, so that our fellowship may be restored. If he fails to respond in the presence of witnesses, the matter is to be taken before the entire church. If he fails to take advantage of this last opportunity to repent, he is to be excommunicated from the church without any privileges of fellowship.

"Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican" (Matthew 18:15-17).