By Mike Riley
In 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 – 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)