GOING TO LAW BEFORE UNBELIEVERS.
By D. T. Bourdeau
Paul, writing by inspiration, reproves those of the church who are inclined to go to law with each other before unbelievers, and teaches that the saints shall judge the world and angels (evidently referring to fallen angels), and that if they are to do this, they are competent to judge in matters of differences and dissatisfaction between brethren. 1 Cor. 6: 1-4. And to shame those who are guilty of pursuing such a course, he tells them to select the least in the church to settle their difficulties. The judgment of the humblest of God's children, who has the law of God in his heart and practically carries it out in his life, is of more value in settling difficulties arising from dealings between brethren than that of the ablest lawyer who has not the law of God at heart, nor that true sense of justice and that unwavering purpose for the right which are derived from the fear of the Lord, a knowledge of his commandments, and a change of heart by the power of divine grace. Young converts should be taught that they cannot be approved in going to law with their brethren in the church, and that they should go to law with unbelievers only when such a course is unavoidable. They should also be taught the urgent necessity of consulting with those who are appointed to give advice in difficulties arising in the church, or with which the church is connected. Such measures are in accordance with church discipline under the new covenant, as well as with church regulations under the Jewish economy. Eze. 18, etc. By prudence in such matters, calamities and great losses will be avoided, and the cause of God will be saved from the disgrace that would otherwise come upon it. D. T. BOURDEAU.