1 Corinthians 6:6

6 But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!

1 Corinthians 6:6 in Other Translations

6 But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.

6 but brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers?

6 But instead, one believer sues another—right in front of unbelievers!

6 And here you are taking each other to court before people who don't even believe in God! How can they render justice if they don't believe in the God of justice?

6 but brother goeth to law with brother, and that before unbelievers?

6 Instead, one believer goes to court against another believer, and this happens in front of unbelievers.

6 Instead, brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers!

6 Instead, one believer goes to court against another. And this happens in front of unbelievers!

1 Corinthians 6:6 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 6:6

But brother goeth to law with brother
The relation meant is spiritual; it was usual for members of churches to be called brethren, they professing to be born again of the same Father, and belonging to the same family under Christ, the son, firstborn, and master of it: and a very wicked and shameful thing it was, that persons in such a relation, being of such a family, should go to law with one another at all:

and that before the unbelievers;
which is an aggravation of their sin and folly. The apostle before calls them "unjust", now "infidels", such as had no faith in Christ, disbelieved the Messiah, and denied the whole Gospel, and therefore no faith or confidence should be put in them; for, generally speaking, such as have no faith, are not only wicked, but unreasonable men, men of no reason, conscience, justice, and equity; and therefore very improper persons for believers to bring their causes before.

1 Corinthians 6:6 In-Context

4 Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church?

5 I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?

6 But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!

7 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?

8 Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers and sisters.

Cross References

• 1. S Romans 7:1
• 2. 2 Corinthians 6:14,15; 1 Timothy 5:8