Jesus, in Matthew 18, encourages mediation of conflicts that aren’t resolved directly between the parties and, in Luke 12, discourages taking to civil court those disputes that arise among believers.

This model is reinforced by 1 Corinthians 6:5-6, which states “Can it be that there is no one among you wise enough to settle a dispute between the brothers, but brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers?” (ESV).

As members of and participants in the Body of Christ, denominations, local Churches, and Church-members should be able to resolve disputes among themselves without depending on the resources and wisdom of the world. Sometimes, while the disputes may be rooted in separate, earnest, and well-considered positions, the parties need help in finding resolution. This is the job of a mediator willing to work with the parties on the problem, whether or not the relationship is a focus.

Further, the job of a mediator should conform to the Bible’s expectation that everyone is due respect, but no one is entitled to preference in a mediation. See Deuteronomy 1:17 (Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s” (KJV)).

It is not always easy, but as Christians we are obliged to “reason frankly with our neighbor” (Leviticus 19:17 ESV). Every mediation is an effort at peacemaking that begs the active participation and knowing consent of the parties. Our goal is to promote reasoning by providing guidance that challenges discord and encourages the voicing and exercise of sound wisdom.

If you have a problem – whether in denominational or church governance, among believers, or between churches – that simply isn’t going away, please contact us. Even though the way may be difficult, our aim will be to aid in the restoration of “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3 ESV).