What is the context?
Paul is addressing disputes in which believers take one another before outside judges. He asks why a community destined to share in God’s judgment cannot find someone wise enough to settle its everyday disagreements.
The failure runs deeper than the choice of a courtroom. The Corinthians are cheating and wronging their own brothers. Paul challenges their determination to win against one another, even asking why they would not rather accept a loss than continue the conflict. The person causing the loss is also directly rebuked, not excused.
The immediate subject is everyday disputes between members of the church. Paul’s own appeal to legal protection in Acts 25:10–12 shows that he recognizes a place for civil authority. Here his concern is the church’s failure to act with wisdom and justice toward its own members.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly read this as a rebuke of destructive litigation and wrongdoing among believers, with a call to wise settlement and willingness to bear loss. Calvin’s comment on verse 1 distinguishes avoidable lawsuits used to harass a brother from appearing and defending a case when summoned; his reading does not make every involvement in a civil court the same situation Paul condemns.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Daniel 7:18–27 describes God overturning oppressive rule and giving the kingdom to His holy people. Jesus also promises His disciples a share in judgment in Matthew 19:28. These passages give a wider setting for Paul’s reminder about the saints’ future role.
Paul uses that future responsibility to challenge present conduct. People called to share in God’s just rule should learn to deal justly with one another now. He does not explain here every detail of judging the world or angels, and the practical appeal does not depend on supplying a complete timetable.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.