He says:
Greetings,
This Bible study explores the authentic interpretation of 1 Corinthians 6:1-11, emphasising Paul's rebuke of Corinthian believers for resolving internal disputes in secular courts. Drawing on historical context, the author argues that early Christian communities, modelled after first century synagogue structure, incorporated impartial judicial systems (bet din) for civil matters which is essential for righteous Biblical governance. The study critiques modern abuses in Churches—such as bias, slander, and perjury—highlighting the absence of neutral panels and courts, which forces members to secular recourse despite Paul's ideal of internal arbitration by "wise" saints destined to judge the world and angels.
Commentaries from scholars are surveyed, affirming the passage's focus on civil (not criminal) disputes. Basic principles advocate Matthew 18 conflict resolution, forgiveness, and Godly mediation, but permit legal action for serious abuses like defamation, victimisation or harassment when church mechanisms fail or are corrupted by bias and slander. A proposed tiered court system—local, regional, and top-level—with neutral, diverse juries, training, appeals, and anti-perjury safeguards is outlined to ensure justice, impartiality, and adherence to Biblical mandates. Ultimately, the study calls for restorative processes to prevent flock scattering, affirming secular courts' legitimacy (per Romans 13).
Nobody wants to go this far, but there are times people being harassed and intimidated have to pursue their God-given rights when the internal system of the group breaks down and there is bias, prejudice and beliefs that ministers have always have to win, no matter the consequences such as the scattering of the flock.
In the Bible study What is Justice? it was demonstrated that impartial courts are found throughout the Bible, but this principle has been sadly lacking in the Churches of God.
In this follow-up Bible study, we explore the necessity of having courts in fulfillment of the Scripture under discussion (I Corinthians 6:1-11).
Feedback direct to me is appreciated.
Regards to all,
Craig
The pdf article is here: The Real Meaning of I Corinthians 6:1-11
What is your opinion on this?
2 comments:
Thank you Craig for this post.
My two cents worth is that the Armstrong movement is beyond help. Nothing will change. The very best outcome is for the members to leave this toxic environment and embrace Christ fully without the ‘handlers’, the ministry of the Armstrong movement being the stumbling blocks they are. The other day ucog posted a video on YT about BI. Simply an introduction to their booklet Britain and USA in Prophecy nonsense. Comments for said video was turned off. Like the ministry. No alternative dialogue is wanted that may expose the huge shortcomings in this flawed theology. They will not change, for that will open up dissent. My advice is LEAVE. And I acknowledge that there are many who may well be perfectly happy within this movement. Such is the human condition. Our liberty is in Christ, in that let’s rejoice.
5.52 PM, Scout just had an article on scientific evidence that is problematical for British-Israelism. Why wasn't your complain about BI posted there? The frequency of posters ignoring the topic and bringing up BI is off-putting.
Post a Comment