Mediation applying principles of Christian Conciliation is a process to assist two or more individuals resolve a disagreement or dispute between them. It addresses issues that are material in nature, and/or relational in nature.

Matthew 18:15-18 provides mediation procedures for addressing conflict in the church. The biblical procedure is often utilized to discipline church members for serious infractions that are highly publicized and threaten the reputation of the church.

A formal mediation process serves as a retaining wall.

More importantly, the process of mediation is responsive to Paul’s rebuke to Christians resolving their disputes in the courts (1 Corinthians 6:1-8). Without a dispute resolution process in the church, particularly mediation, how should the church assist conflicted church members? Does the church have a responsibility to establish a formal forum for conflict resolution? The answer is unequivocally YES! It is not optional. We are Christians daily, not just on Sundays or while in church. Therefore, as Christians, we must make every effort to keep the unity of the 5 Spirit through the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3), to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification (Romans14:19), and to be holy for without holiness no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). The church must lead the way for peacemaking if the conflict involves Christians, and the dispute may not even involve church ministry but members of the local church. The question then should be how should the church implement a biblically based mediation process?

A|I Legal Aid and A|I Legal Dispute Resolution Center is biblically required to provide a reconciliation process (1 Corinthians 6:1-8). “ Apostle Creed Ministries.”

Why Mediation’?

God is revealed in time through mediation. For quite a long time, God sent agents to serve as ‘mediators’ (middle persons) between Him and the people. Then He sent his son as ‘The Mediator’ between God and Humanity. After his death and resurrection, Jesus left the Church, entrusting it to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who continues to mediate his presence throughout history. This website is a testament to the Holy Spirit’s role in the Church’s mediation.

Scripture say’s

  • I appeal to you, brothers [sisters], in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers [sisters], some from Chloe’s household, have informed me of your quarrels. What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “ I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.” Is Christ divided?

—1 Corinthians 1:10-13

  • But the wisdom from heaven is first pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

—James 3:17-18

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