What does 1 Corinthians 6:5 mean?

I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 1 Corinthians 6:5

Explanation

The verse 1 Corinthians 6:5 is a part of Paul’s admonishment to the Christians in Corinth. It addresses an issue where believers were taking their disputes to secular courts instead of resolving them within the church community. Paul expresses his dismay that there seems to be no one wise enough among the Corinthians to adjudicate disputes between fellow Christians. The phrase “I speak to your shame” indicates that Paul considers this situation disgraceful. His rhetorical question underlines the expectation that, as a community of believers endowed with wisdom from God, they should be capable of settling their own matters rather than relying on non-Christian judges.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians in the mid-first century AD to the church in Corinth, a major city in ancient Greece known for its commerce and cultural diversity. At this time, the Roman legal system was in place, and it was common for citizens to bring civil disputes before public courts. The early Christian community, however, was urged by leaders like Paul to differentiate itself by resolving conflicts internally, in a manner consistent with Christian values and teachings, rather than relying on pagan legal practices.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reflects several key concepts. One is the idea that the church is equipped with divine wisdom, capable of addressing conflicts according to God’s righteousness. Another insight is the unity of the church; believers are called to handle matters as a family, avoiding public litigation that might damage the testimony of the church and disrupt fellowship. Lastly, this verse is often cited in support of the concept of “church discipline,” a practice that emphasizes accountability and resolution within the Christian community.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can be applied to how modern Christian communities address conflicts. It encourages believers to seek wise counsel from within their own community and to approach disputes with a mindset of reconciliation and mutual respect. It also challenges Christians to develop a level of spiritual maturity that allows for wise and fair decision-making without the need to turn to secular authorities in every instance.

Cross-References

• Matthew 18:15-17 (KJV): “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone…”
• James 3:17 (KJV): “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits…”
• 1 Corinthians 5:12 (KJV): “For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase “wise man” is “σοφὸς” (sophos), referring to someone with practical wisdom or insight. The word “judge” is derived from “διακρίνω” (diakrino), meaning to separate, make a distinction, or decide a matter. “Shame” translates to “πρὸς ἐντροπήν” (pros entropēn), suggesting disgrace or dishonor. These terms underscore the expectation for the Corinthian Christians to possess and utilize godly wisdom among themselves.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

During the era of the New Testament, many cultures had systems of resolving disputes, whether through local elders, religious leaders, or state-appointed judges. Jewish communities, for instance, had a tradition of local tribunals, the Sanhedrin. What sets Paul’s advice apart is that it reflects early Christian ideals of community, forgiveness, and divine guidance, diverging from a strict reliance on secular legal systems or traditional Jewish courts.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community typically does not comment directly on scriptural verses. However, concepts such as group dynamics, conflict resolution, and the social psychology of in-group behavior can relate to the verse’s message about resolving disputes within communities. Contemporary insights into human behavior lend support to the idea that groups with shared values and beliefs can successfully mediate conflicts internally.

Commentaries

Commentaries on 1 Corinthians 6:5 vary, but many agree on the verse’s general rebuke of the Corinthian church’s behavior. John Calvin comments on the embarrassment that the church should feel for not resolving matters internally. Matthew Henry’s commentary also emphasizes the responsibility of Christians to judge matters among themselves with charity and wisdom. Modern commentaries echo the sentiment that this scripture reflects Paul’s desire for the church to handle its own issues righteously and avoid scandal in the broader society.