Christian Conciliation

Are there Biblical alternatives to litigation?

Yes! Although civil litigation is sometimes the only way to resolve certain legal issues, the Bible teaches that Christians should first seek to settle their differences through biblically grounded mediation or arbitration (see Matt. 18:15-20 and 1 Cor. 6:1-8). Today this faith-based process is often referred to as “Christian conciliation.”

As these Scriptures indicate, disputes that are primarily relational or that involve simple legal issues can often be resolved with the assistance of spiritually mature believers in the local church. Disputes that involve more complex legal, relational or spiritual issues may require the assistance of Certified Conciliators who can provide biblical, professional alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services.

Ever since the Christian Legal Society trained the first Christian conciliators in 1982, this process had been used to resolve a wide spectrum of conflicts, including: contract, business, employment, family and divorce, negligence, probate, intellectual property, sexual misconduct, church divisions and wrongful death (see actual case descriptions on this page).

This process has been used and affirmed by Christians and non-Christians alike, and conciliation decisions have been upheld by both federal and state courts.

 

 

Where Can I Learn More About Christian Conciliation?

The Handbook for Christian Conciliation provides detailed information about Christian conciliation, including frequently asked questions, rules of procedure, a standard of conduct for Christian conciliators and a model conciliation agreement. Additional information and guidance on specific situations can also be found at the ICC website or you can contact one of the conciliation ministries listed below.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Conciliator?

The Christian Legal Society recommends the services of three well-established conciliation ministries, all of which include CLS members, among others, who have substantial training and experience in conflict coaching and conciliation:

If a conflict involves a contract with a conciliation clause (language that says disputes must be resolved through Christian conciliation, see below), special rules may apply.  Be sure to mention the presence of a contract and conciliation clause when you contact one of these ministries.

Where Can I Receive Training as a Conciliator?

If you would like to improve your relational skills or be certified as a conflict coach or conciliator, you can find excellent training resources through the following links:

If God has given you a heart for peacemaking and you would like to see others benefit from this type of training, you could use these ministries’ resources for professional development training for your entire staff, which can produce major benefits for your firm. You could also encourage your church to use these resources to establish an in-house peacemaking team that serves your entire congregation.

Can Christians Add Clauses to Contracts to Ensure That They Resolve Future Conflicts Through Conciliation Rather Than Litigation?

Yes. Information about legally binding conciliation clauses may be found on the following webpages:

Each of these clauses incorporates the Rules of Procedure of their respective organization (RW360 or AOG). These two sets of rules are nearly identical, with one significant difference, which has to do with whether RW360 or AOR has the default power to name a case administrator if the parties themselves are unable to mutually agree on an administrator (compare RW360 Rule 5 and AOR Rule 8).

Do You Need Help?

Christian Legal Society offers legal assistance for those in need through CLS’ network of Christian Legal Aid clinics and Christian Attorneys’ directory. CLS’ Center for Law & Religious Freedom is also available to address issues related to the infringement of religious freedom.

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