Judging The World And Angels
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesIn 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, Paul asks two questions of the saints at Corinth, regarding saints judging the world (1 Corinthians 6:2) and angels (1 Corinthians 6:3). A question we might ask ourselves is, “In what manner are saints to judge the world and angels?”
The context in the beginning verses of 1 Corinthians 6 is in condemning the practice among the Corinthian congregation of taking each other to court before heathen judges (or any other, for that matter – 1 Corinthians 6:6-7) when they should be resolving their differences among themselves by seeking the wisdom of the wise among them (1 Corinthians 6:5). To emphasize the foolishness and inconsistency of this practice, Paul reminds them of the exalted status of the saints in “judging the world” (1 Corinthians 6:2) and in “judging angels” (1 Corinthians 6:3). How will this “judging” be accomplished? By the righteous course of conduct which epitomizes the righteousness of God. This is the standard of God’s truth that condemns or approves any and all – righteousness (Psalm 119:142; cf. John 17:17); Psalm 119:144,151; Psalm 119:172). As the saint exemplifies that standard, he or she exemplifies the standard of conduct which shall ultimately be the standard of all (John 12:48-50; cf. Romans 9:30-33; Romans 10:1-4; Gal. 3:21-29).