In the context of biblical teachings, the concept of compromise before litigation is an important principle that emphasizes reconciliation and the resolution of disputes among believers without resorting to secular courts. This principle is rooted in the desire to maintain unity and peace within the Christian community, reflecting the values of forgiveness, humility, and love.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of litigation among believers in his first letter to the Corinthians. He expresses concern over Christians taking their disputes before secular judges rather than resolving them within the church. In 1 Corinthians 6:1-7 , Paul writes:

> "If any of you has a grievance against another, how dare he go to law before the unrighteous instead of before the saints! Do you not know that the saints 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! So if you need to settle everyday matters, do you appoint as judges those of no standing in the church? I say this to your shame. Is there really no one among you wise enough to arbitrate between his brothers? Instead, one brother goes to law against another, 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?"

Paul's exhortation highlights the importance of resolving disputes internally, emphasizing that believers should seek wise counsel within the church community. The passage underscores the idea that taking legal action against fellow Christians in secular courts is a failure to live out the principles of the faith.

Principles of Compromise

1. Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The call to compromise before litigation is deeply connected to the Christian virtues of reconciliation and forgiveness. Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:23-24 :

> "Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift."

This passage emphasizes the priority of reconciliation over religious rituals, highlighting the importance of resolving conflicts and seeking peace with others.

2. Humility and Love: Compromise requires humility and a willingness to put the interests of others above one's own. Philippians 2:3-4 encourages believers:

> "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

This attitude fosters an environment where compromise and mutual understanding can flourish, preventing disputes from escalating to litigation.

3. Witness to the World: The manner in which Christians handle disputes serves as a testimony to the world. Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers in John 17:21 reflects this:

> "that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You. May they also be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me."

By resolving conflicts internally and demonstrating love and unity, believers provide a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Practical Application

In practical terms, the principle of compromise before litigation encourages believers to seek mediation and arbitration within the church community. Church leaders and mature Christians can serve as mediators, helping to facilitate dialogue and resolution. This approach not only aligns with biblical teachings but also strengthens the bonds of fellowship and trust within the body of Christ.

Ultimately, the enjoinment of compromise before litigation calls Christians to embody the teachings of Christ in their interactions, prioritizing peace, unity, and the testimony of the church to the world.Proverbs 25:8-10
Go not forth hastily to strive, lest you know not what to do in the end thereof, when your neighbor has put you to shame.
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Matthew 5:25,26
Agree with your adversary quickly, whiles you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison.
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Luke 12:58,59
When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, as you are in the way, give diligence that you may be delivered from him; lest he hale you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer cast you into prison.
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