Nonpersonal Lawsuits: Should S Christian Sue A Company
Larry Burkett
Although in part one of “Should a Christian Sue?” we concluded that it would not be a good example of Christ-like character for a Christian to sue another individual, is the same standard advised in dealing with a business, corporation, or insurance company? Many lawsuits are initiated because of personal loss suffered due to the negligence or deceit of a company or business. Should Christians pursue such matters into the secular courts?
Larry writes in his book, Business by the Book, “Since there were no corporations in existence when the Bible was written, the best we can do is relate the principle to the closest parallel of that time: a government agency.
“It seems clear from the book of Acts that Paul recognized both the authority and the responsibility of the government of Rome. Twice, when he was falsely arrested, he relied on application of Roman law to regain his freedom. He also clearly used the implied threat of using that law to punish his antagonists . When he was falsely accused by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem and jailed by the Roman authorities he appealed to the law of Rome to defend himself. The Roman government was an entity, not a person, so Paul felt he was clearly within his rights to use Roman law against that entity.” 1
1 Larry Burkett, Business by the Book
2 Larry Burkett, Principles Under Scrutiny, “To Sue or Not to Sue”
3 www.aclj.org
Forgiving Others Unlocks Forgiveness For You
Ultimately, any discussion about forgiveness will ultimately circle back around to Jesus Himself. Through His work on the cross, Jesus purchased forgiveness for all of us who accept Him. But accepting that forgiveness requires that we forgive others, too.
Jesus makes this clear in the parable of the unmerciful servant, which you can find in Matthew 18:21-35. The whole passage is worth a read, but lets focus on verses 32-35, where the Master chastises a servant who was forgiven a huge debt, but then ruthlessly pursued a fellow servant for a small sum of money.
32 Then the master called the servant in. You wicked servant, he said, I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldnt you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you? 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
35 This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.
Here, we see two things clearly: God forgives us our debts, and He expects us to do the same.
If you have loaned money to someone and are considering what to do next, understanding what the Bible says about forgiving debt should make a big impact on your decision. God forgives us infinitely, and He expects us to do the same for others.
People Committed Suicide In The Bible
Let’s begin by looking at the seven accounts of suicide in the Bible.
Abimelech
After having his skull crushed under a millstone that was dropped by a woman from the Tower of Shechem, Abimelech called for his armor-bearer to kill him with a sword. He did not want it said that a woman had killed him.
Judas
After he betrayed Jesus, Judas Iscariot was overcome with remorse and hung himself.
In each of these instances, except that of Samson, suicide in the Bible is presented in an unfavorable light. These were ungodly men acting in desperation and disgrace. Samson’s case was different. And while his life was not a model of holy living, Samson was honored among the faithful heroes of Hebrews 11. Some consider Samson’s final act to be an example of martyrdom, a sacrificial death that allowed him to fulfill his God-assigned mission. Whatever the case, we know that Samson was not condemned by God to hell for his actions.
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Love In Every Season: Understanding The Four Stages Of A Healthy Relationship
Every relationship goes through four life-changing seasons: Spring. Summer. Fall. Winter. Each season plays an important role in taking your relationship to the next level. And depending on how you navigate each season, your relationship will either flourish and grow, or it will slowly die. Whether youre single, dating, engaged or married, join licensed professional counselor and relationship expert, Debra Fileta as she takes you on an eye-opening psychological and spiritual journey through the four seasons that she has observed in every healthy relationship.
Can A Christian Sue Non
In 1 Corinthians 6:8 Paul clearly rebukes them for suing even your brethren. Then he writes, You do this even to your brethren. The message is simple, Christians are not to sue others for personal gain. The Jewish religious leaders taught that vengeance was okay. But in Matthew 5:38-42, Jesus corrected their false teaching. Here are Jesus words,
You have heard that it was said, AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH. But I say to you, do not resist an evil person but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:38-42
Here Jesus quoted the teaching of the Pharisees and then says, But I say . . . Notice that Jesus says we are not to resist an evil person and him who slaps us. In fact, if someone wants to sue us, we are to give them what they want and give them more than they ask. If they ask us to go one mile, then we are to go two miles. The point is that a Christian is not to be self-centered. Jesus gave us the principle that Christians are not to sue. Can I sue someone because I have been hurt? If you are a Christian, the answer is, No!
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Lying Is A Spiritual Battle
I wrote this prayer when a friend lost a devastating lawsuit because the accuser was such a convincing liar. My friend and his family were in absolute shock because they had hoped that the truth would be apparent to the jury. I struggled as I attempted to pray for this situation and began looking into what the Bible has to say about those who tell lies.
The more I researched the more alarmed I became at how diabolical lying can be. Lying is a spiritual battle and not an easy thing to endure or combat. It is truly spiritual warfare and very destructive to individuals, families, churches and businesses.
The Bible is full of instances of lying people who pervert justice. Truth telling is the cornerstone of faith and community. The Ten Commandments say, You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. In fact, in the Garden of Eden, mankind fell because they believed a lie about God told by the devil.
Friends Partners And Lovers: What It Takes To Make Your Marriage Work
Most marriages survive by gritting teeth and holding on. But marriages can and will not only survive but thrive when husbands and wives learn to cherish one another. Those are the powerful words of bestselling author Gary Thomas in his newest bookCherish. And in a world desperate for marriage redemption, it is needed now more than ever. Thomas shows that although there are a countless number of marriages consisting of two people just going through the motions, there are real ways this pattern can be reversed: when husbands and wives learn to cherish one another in proven, loving, and everyday actions and words.
Newest Release – Episode 2: Heroes Providing Hope
Discover the amazing work our PRCs Directors, Nurses, and Volunteers are making in their communities! Youll see firsthand testimonies of a PRC in action, and that there are other options outside of abortions! Youll also discover how your family can support your local PRC!
Yes, I Promise to Pray for the Pre-born and Their Moms!
Will you pray for the pre-born and moms that are facing unexpected pregnancies? We will send you a 7-day prayer guide that will help guide you along this journey with us!! You can even choose to receive this great resource by text!
Newest Release – Episode 4: Sometimes the Choice is Hard
Yes, I Promise to Pray for the Pre-born and Their Moms!
Newest Release – Episode 3: The Power of a Picture
Yes, I Promise to Pray for the Pre-born and Their Moms!
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Tactics 10th Anniversary Edition: A Game Plan For Discussing Your Christian Convictions
In a world increasingly indifferent to Christian truth, followers of Christ need to be equipped to communicate with those who do not speak their language or accept their source of authority. In Tactics, 10th Anniversary Edition, Gregory Koukl demonstrates how to artfully regain control of conversations, keeping them moving forward in constructive ways through thoughtful diplomacy. Youll learn how to stop challengers in their tracks and how to turn the tables on questions or provocative statements. Most important, youll learn how to get people thinking about Jesus.
What Does The Bible Say About Suicide
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek help immediately. Your Lord loves you with an everlasting love, and there is hope.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255
The topic of suicide is perhaps one of the most difficult and painful discussions in the faith. It is confusing, and it is divisive. Suicide is the act of an individual ending his or her life. Many look to the Bible for answers, whether to alleviate their depression, or to find answers about what happened to a loved one who may have taken their own life. The Bible may seem silent, and there are church traditions on suicide which can confuse the issue. Understanding what the Bible actually says about suicide can provide comfort for those who are struggling, and for those who need answers.
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Does Filing A Lawsuit Make You A Bad Christian
While our clients come to us with many concerns, a common question is, “Can a Christian sue?” 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 deals directly with the possibility of one Christian suing another Christian. The scripture poses the question of pursuing a claim against brothers and sisters when “you yourselves cheat and do wrong.”
The verses contemplate taking disputes against other Christians to a court of law “before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the Lord’s people.” It makes clear that when there are “lawsuits among Christians, you have been completely defeated already.” Yet, the Bible also commands, “Do not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits.”
The Word Walk: What Does The Bible Say About Suing/lawsuits
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Reconciling Faith And Science In A Medical Crisis
Dr. Lee Warren is a neurosurgeon who has faced many heavy challenges in his life from serving in the Iraq War to removing deadly brain tumors to experiencing the loss of a teenage son. Hell share about his difficult quest to find answers to some of lifes toughest questions, while holding onto his faith in God and the sure hope of heaven
Effective Habits To Embrace In Parenting
To be an effective parent, you must be a leader in your childs life, guiding with a gentle hand and setting a solid example. Dr. Randy Schroeder provides the insight you need to be a leader-parent. As he explores the foundational Rsrelationship, routines, responsibilities, and rulesyoull better understand the role you play in your childs life. Youll learn great phrases to employ such as Either/Or/You Decide and When You/Then You. While there is no perfect parent, this nuts-and-bolts material will equip you to lead your child in a loving, confident manner.
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Navigating A Toxic Culture With Your Daughter
As a pediatrician, Dr. Meg Meeker has seen thousands of girls come through her office through the years. They struggle with eating issues, sexual identity, social mediaand many other challenges in this toxic culture. Dr. Meeker will encourage parents to invest love and time in their daughters and develop their character to give them the best opportunity for a bright future, all rooted in a spiritual foundation. The discussion also includes healthy feminism vs. toxic feminism
Is It Biblical To Sue Someone: Key Takeaway
There is no room for justifying a Christian taking another Christian to court. They do not love one another as Christ loved the church. They do not love their neighbor as themselves. They may not have even passed from death to life . It defiles the reputation not only of the church but of Jesus Christ Himself Who is Head of the church. God associates this type of sin with sexual immorality and this type of sin is committed by those who will not inherit eternal life . The conclusion is that Christians are commanded to not sue one another but settle the issue in the church since Christians will be reigning with Christ someday. How can they expect to reign in the coming Kingdom of God when they can not even settle issues with each other? God forbid.
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The Biblical Pattern For Settling Conflicts
Matthew 18:15-17 provides the biblical pattern for settling conflicts within the church:
If you have followed the steps in Matthew 18 and the problem is still not resolved, in some cases going to court might be the right thing to do, even against a brother or sister in Christ. We say this cautiously because such actions should be the last resort and decided only through much prayer and godly counsel.
The Spiritual Battle For Your Marriage
God designed marriage to reflect His love to the world and because of this, the enemy wants to destroy Gods beautiful design. Based on his book, Defending Your Marriage, Dr. Tim and Noreen Muehlhoff share about the reality of spiritual warfare against marriages, and how to combat the enemys lies with the truth of God. Couples will be encouraged that theyre not alone in the fight for a godly marriage and better equipped to be a shining example for the world around them.
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Atp: What Does The Bible Say About Lawsuits
This is a question often asked. Many people are confused because they have heard that the Bible says, “Christians are not to sue.” Is this what the Bible really says. Let’s look at this subject from God’s perspective and not go on “hear say.”
The position that Christians should not sue is based on a verse found in 1 Corinthians 6. It reads:
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? ~1 Cor. 6:7
To understand what the apostle is saying to the Christian, one must look at the entire passage beginning with verse one. So let’s start there.
If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment 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! Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account 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 goes to law against another–and this in front of unbelievers!
In other words, as Christians we should not be taking civil issues to court.
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Identifying Triggers In Your Marriage Part 1
They were both convinced they had married the wrong person. From almost the very beginning of their marriage, Amber and Guy Lia experienced various tensions and personality clashes related to house cleaning, backseat driving, workaholism, and intimacy. In this two-day Focus on the Family broadcast, Amber and Guy discuss how they bravely faced the triggers head-on, and committed to working on their own relationships with Jesus. As you listen to the Lias story, youll feel hope that you, too, can see real marriage transformation!
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