Faith-Based Mediation

Biblical Support for Mediation

Principles for Faith-based Mediation in Florida

Conflicts and disputes are not a new concept. Since the beginning of time, God has offered ways for his followers to solve their interpersonal concerns more peacefully. At Inspired Mediation Services in Florida, founded by Patrick Cioffi, we promote ways for people to reach mutually beneficial agreements that help them preserve both their interests and their relationships. By adhering to God’s word as found in the Bible. We believe that people could reach the best possible outcome through this process.

Biblical Principles of Conflict Resolution

Faith-based Mediation provides wise and impartial counsel to assist Believers in resolving their problems outside of the court system. We are guided by Biblical principles and are grounded in the belief that we are called to avoid litigation.

How Mediation is supported by the Bible:

Biblical Beginnings to Conflict Resolution

The Old Testament has established a precedent of moral conflict resolution as well. We can learn how to successfully resolve our disputes without becoming hostile by following these tenets.

The Old Testament teaches that:

• To help His people to resolve their disputes, God told Moses, “Choose wise and discerning and experienced men from your tribes and appoint them as your heads.” Deut.1: 13-18
• Moses chose men from the tribes of Israel and appointed them heads over the people. These judges were told to impartially hear cases between their fellow countrymen or those who were with them. Ex.18:13-27
• God told His people not to go to court because of the uncertainties of litigation and because they may lose their case and may be put to shame. Proverbs 25:8-10

The New Testament also teaches that:

• God made government but allows people to govern themselves, meaning Believers are required to respect the law whether they agree with it or not. Rom. 13:1-7
• While our judicial system was established to resolve disputes, the Bible teaches that we should avoid suing one another. 1 Cor. 6: 1-6

In all their affairs, including resolving disputes, the central theme for Believers is to humbly obey the word of God. This is best accomplished when we love one another—”love your neighbor as yourself.”

• Believers understand that no one is without sin; it is how we go about resolving our sin that is important.
• Thus, God understands that Believers will have disagreements with one another. He wants us to resolve them with love and to use methods that are Christ-centered, and which reflect Jesus’ admonition to love one another as we love ourselves. Matt. 18:15-17
• Whether dealing with other Believers or with non-Believers, the Bible instructs Christ’s followers never to take their own revenge but instead trust God and overcome evil with good. Rom. 12:17-21
• After the New Covenant was established, the theme of problem resolution outside of the courtroom continued to expand. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Matt. 5:9
• He instructed His disciples to be at peace with all men, if possible, so far as it was dependent on them. Rom. 12:18
• He told His followers to settle their conflicts quickly, rather than having to go to the court where the outcome could turn out badly. Matt. 5:23-26

The apostle Paul strongly discouraged lawsuits between Believers, and he admonished Faith-based to settle their disputes with the help of wise Believers rather than by Unbelievers in the court. He taught that going to court against another Believer is shameful and is a defeat even before the case is heard. 1 Cor. 6:1-8

To learn how alternative dispute resolution can help resolve your personal, business, or church-related matter, please call Inspired Mediation at 561 300 6002 to schedule your free 30-minute consultation.