The Bible advises believers to handle disputes among themselves rather than going to court. It encourages resolution through forgiveness, mediation, and reconciliation, reflecting a desire to maintain peace and unity within the community of faith. However, it also recognizes the need for justice.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Seeking Wise Counsel
What Does The Bible Say About Suing People
1 Corinthians 6:1-8
“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 very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers and sisters.”
This passage addresses the issue of believers taking legal action against each other. It reminds us that as Christians, we are called to resolve conflicts within the church community rather than seeking judgment from secular courts. The passage emphasizes that we have been given the wisdom and authority to judge even the trivial matters. It also highlights the negative impact of such lawsuits, as they bring shame upon the name of Christ and damage the unity of believers. Instead, we are encouraged to choose the path of humility and love, being willing to be wronged or cheated for the sake of preserving peace and harmony among believers.
Matthew 5:40
“And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.”
This verse is part of Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. It challenges believers to respond with radical generosity and selflessness when faced with lawsuits or conflicts regarding material possessions. Instead of seeking revenge or holding on to our rights, Jesus encourages us to willingly give more than what is demanded of us. This attitude of sacrificial love and generosity reflects the character of God and demonstrates our trust in His provision and justice. By responding in this way, we demonstrate to others the transforming power of Christ in our lives.
1 Corinthians 6:7
“The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated?”
This verse reminds believers that engaging in lawsuits against fellow believers is a sign of defeat. Instead of seeking worldly justice, Christians are called to embrace the teachings of Christ and prioritize reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity within the body of Christ. Choosing to be wronged or cheated, rather than pursuing legal action, demonstrates a humble and Christ-like response to conflicts and reflects the love and grace of God in our interactions with others.
James 4:1-3
“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”
This passage addresses the root causes of conflicts and disputes among believers. It highlights the role of selfish desires and covetousness as significant contributors to disputes. Rather than seeking legal action or engaging in fights and quarrels, the passage encourages believers to examine their own hearts and motivations. It reminds us that true peace and resolution can be found by surrendering our desires to God, seeking His guidance, and aligning our requests with His will. By addressing the inward battles and seeking God’s wisdom and provision, we can avoid unnecessary lawsuits and live in harmony with one another.
Luke 12:13-15
“Someone in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”
This encounter with Jesus cautions against the dangers of greed and materialism that often lead to disputes and legal battles. Jesus, highlighting the primary purpose of His ministry, refuses to be an arbitrator in earthly matters. Instead, He directs our attention to the need for vigilance against the temptation of greed and the importance of having an eternal perspective. This verse reminds us that our lives should not be defined by our possessions but rather by our relationship with God and our commitment to love and serve others.
Proverbs 25:8
“Do not hastily bring into court, for what will you do in the end, when your neighbor puts you to shame?”
This proverb speaks to the importance of carefully considering the consequences before resorting to legal action. It encourages us to seek alternative avenues for resolving disputes, such as open communication, mediation, or involving trusted wise individuals within our community. Rushing into a legal battle without careful consideration may result in humiliation and shame for both parties involved. Therefore, it is wise to approach conflicts with humility, seeking resolution in a manner that upholds our Christian values and promotes unity among believers.
Proverbs 20:22
“Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you.”
This proverb advises against seeking personal revenge when wronged. It reminds us that justice ultimately belongs to the Lord, who is just and righteous in all His ways. By exercising patience and trust in God’s perfect timing, we align ourselves with His will and demonstrate our faith in His ability to right wrongs and bring about justice. Rather than pursuing lawsuits as a means of revenge, we are called to entrust ourselves to God’s care and allow Him to be the ultimate judge and restorer in every situation.
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of actively pursuing peace with others. As believers, we are called to be peacemakers, striving to resolve conflicts and disputes in a manner that reflects the love and grace of Christ. While legal action may seem like a viable solution in some cases, we are encouraged to exhaust all other options before turning to the courts. True peace is found through reconciliation and the willingness to forgive, even when it requires personal sacrifice or the surrendering of certain rights. In our interactions with others, let us prioritize peace and seek unity within the body of Christ.
Proverbs 17:14
“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”
This proverb urges us to exercise caution and wisdom in our relationships to prevent further escalation of conflicts. Just as a small breach in a dam can lead to disastrous consequences, a quarrel can quickly spiral out of control and cause irreparable damage to relationships. This verse encourages us to let go of disputes before they escalate into full-blown conflicts. By willingly dropping the matter and choosing peace over winning an argument, we preserve unity and demonstrate a Christ-like attitude of love and humility.
Proverbs 18:19
“A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.”
This proverb draws our attention to the consequences of wronging a fellow believer. When we treat others unfairly or cause harm, it creates a barrier that is difficult to overcome. The offended party may become unyielding and guarded, leading to a strained relationship and ongoing disputes. It reminds us of the importance of acting with integrity, seeking reconciliation, and making amends when we have wronged others. By valuing and prioritizing our relationships, we can prevent unnecessary legal battles and foster a community of love, forgiveness, and unity.
Matthew 18:15
“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.”
Jesus teaches that when a conflict arises, the first step is to address it directly with the person involved, seeking resolution and reconciliation. Bringing grievances before a court should be the last resort, after all attempts at peaceful resolution have been exhausted. This verse encourages an approach of grace and humility, prioritizing open communication and understanding. By privately addressing the issue and seeking to win back the offender, we demonstrate the love and forgiveness of Christ and foster restoration rather than division.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
This verse reminds believers of the power of love in resolving conflicts and disputes. When we choose to love others deeply, we are able to overlook minor offenses and extend forgiveness and grace. Love does not keep a record of wrongs but seeks to restore relationships and promote unity. By embracing love as the foundation of our interactions, we can prevent conflicts from escalating to the point of legal action. Love allows us to prioritize reconciliation and forgiveness, enabling us to live in harmony and peace with one another.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This proverb emphasizes the significance of our words in conflicts. Responding with gentleness and kindness has the power to diffuse anger and resolve disputes. Instead of reacting with harsh and hurtful words that only escalate the situation, we are called to choose our words wisely and seek understanding and compassion. By approaching conflicts with a gentle spirit, we create an environment where resolution can occur, relationships can be restored, and lawsuits can be avoided.
Ephesians 5:21
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
This verse reminds us of the importance of mutual submission within the body of Christ. As believers, we are called to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This includes humbly considering the needs and perspectives of others, seeking resolution through open communication and understanding. By submitting to one another, we create an environment where conflicts can be resolved amicably, without the need for legal intervention. Through our humble submission, we reflect the servant heart of Christ and foster an atmosphere of love, unity, and peace.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
This famous passage on love serves as a guide for resolving conflicts in a Christ-centered manner. Love is portrayed as patient, kind, humble, and selfless, actively seeking the well-being of others. When conflicts arise, the application of these qualities can lead to peaceful resolutions and prevent a legal battle. Love does not hold grudges or seek retaliation but focuses on forgiveness and reconciliation. In our interactions with others, may we strive to embody the love described in this passage and use it as a compass for resolving disputes in a manner that pleases God.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares that those who actively work towards peace are blessed and identified as children of God. Peacemakers prioritize reconciliation and harmony, seeking to resolve conflicts in a manner that reflects God’s love and grace. By choosing peaceful avenues for resolving disputes and avoiding legal battles, we demonstrate our commitment to the teachings of Christ and our desire to promote unity within the body of believers. Let us strive to become instruments of peace, reflecting the nature of our Heavenly Father and testifying to His transformative power in our lives.
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of humility and selflessness in our interactions with others. Instead of pursuing our own interests or seeking legal action to protect our rights, believers are called to prioritize the needs and concerns of others. By demonstrating Christ-like humility and considering the interests of others, we create an environment conducive to conflict resolution and unity. When we value others above ourselves, conflicts can often be resolved through open dialogue and compromise, rather than through litigation. Let us embrace a mindset of selflessness and humility as we navigate disputes within the body of Christ.
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
This verse highlights the importance of forgiveness in resolving conflicts among believers. Rather than resorting to lawsuits or harboring grudges, we are called to bear with one another and extend forgiveness, just as the Lord has forgiven us. Forgiveness fosters reconciliation, healing, and restoration in relationships, enabling us to overcome conflicts and grievances. By imitating the forgiveness demonstrated by Christ, we demonstrate the transformative power of His love and grace to the world. Let us be quick to forgive, seeking resolution through forgiveness rather than legal action.
Matthew 18:21-22
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'”
In response to Peter’s question about forgiveness, Jesus challenges the disciples to extend unlimited forgiveness to those who have wronged them. This teaching emphasizes the importance of forgiveness in resolving conflicts and preventing bitterness from taking hold of our hearts. Instead of harboring grievances or seeking legal action for every offense, we are called to extend grace and forgiveness repeatedly. By doing so, we create an atmosphere of love, restoration, and reconciliation that stands in contrast to the world’s approach to conflicts. Let us continually demonstrate the grace of God through our willingness to forgive and seek peaceful resolutions.
Matthew 18:15-17
“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.”
This passage provides a step-by-step process for resolving conflicts within the church community. It encourages believers to address the issue privately at first, seeking resolution and restoration. If the offender does not respond, then additional witnesses or church leaders can be involved. Legal action is not the primary focus here but rather the goal of reconciliation and restoration of the relationship. This passage highlights the importance of community accountability and the role of the church in guiding believers towards resolution. Lawsuits should only be pursued after all efforts at reconciliation have been exhausted.