1 Corinthians 6:3- “Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life!”
Extended Explanation
Paul is continuing his argument against believers taking their legal disputes before secular courts instead of handling them within the church. In this verse, he makes a striking statement: Christians will one day judge angels. If that is true, then surely they are capable of handling everyday issues among themselves.
This statement raises an important question—what does Paul mean by “judging angels”? While the Bible does not give a full explanation, it likely refers to believers participating in Christ’s future reign, where they will have authority alongside Him (Revelation 20:4). Some interpret this as a role in judging fallen angels—those who rebelled with Satan (2 Peter 2:4, Jude 6). Others believe it means ruling over angels in a broader sense as part of God’s eternal kingdom.
Regardless of the specifics, Paul’s point is clear: Christians have an incredible destiny. If they will one day participate in such important matters, then they should be able to handle basic disputes in this life with wisdom and justice.
Historical Context
The Corinthian church was immature and divided. Many believers were influenced by the surrounding culture, which was known for corruption and lawsuits. Wealthy people used the legal system to their advantage, while the poor had little hope of receiving justice. Public lawsuits were often used to embarrass and defeat rivals rather than resolve problems fairly.
Paul was frustrated that Christians were acting just like the world—taking each other to court instead of working out their issues within the church. In Jewish tradition, disputes between believers were supposed to be settled within the faith community, not by pagan judges. Paul was calling the Corinthians back to this principle, reminding them that their identity in Christ meant they had a higher calling than the world around them.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the future role of believers in God’s kingdom. Christians are not just saved from sin; they are given authority and responsibility in eternity. Paul is reminding them that their actions now should reflect their future calling. If they will one day reign with Christ (2 Timothy 2:12), they need to start practicing wisdom, fairness, and discernment now.
This also speaks to the importance of spiritual maturity. The Corinthians were acting as if they were powerless, but Paul was telling them that, in Christ, they have the ability to judge rightly. God has given believers His Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:12-15), which enables them to discern right from wrong and make godly decisions.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s use of rhetorical questions (“Do you not know…?”) is a common technique in this letter. He assumes that the Corinthians should already understand this truth, but their actions show otherwise.
The phrase “we will judge angels” is unique and adds weight to Paul’s argument. By mentioning something as significant as judging angels, he makes handling everyday disputes seem small in comparison. The contrast between “angels” and “things of this life” is intentional—if believers will have authority over something as great as angels, they should certainly be able to settle basic disagreements.
Paul’s language is meant to challenge and correct. He is not simply giving them new information but calling them to live in a way that reflects their true identity in Christ.
Biblical Cross-References
- Daniel 7:22 – God’s people will be given authority in His kingdom.
- 2 Timothy 2:12 – Believers will reign with Christ.
- Revelation 20:4 – Saints will rule with Christ in the coming kingdom.
- Jude 6 – Some angels are awaiting judgment because of their rebellion.
- 2 Peter 2:4 – God has kept sinful angels in chains for judgment.
- 1 Corinthians 2:12-15 – The Spirit enables believers to make godly judgments.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse challenges believers to think about their future calling. Christians are not just meant to get through life; they are being prepared for something greater. If they will one day judge angels, they should start living with wisdom, discernment, and responsibility now.
Practically, this means believers should handle conflicts in a way that reflects God’s justice. Instead of reacting with anger, selfishness, or seeking revenge, they should seek wise, godly solutions. The church should be a place where problems are resolved with fairness, humility, and love.
This verse also encourages Christians to grow in maturity. God has given His people the ability to make good decisions through the Holy Spirit and His Word. Instead of relying on the world’s ways, believers should seek wisdom from God and from mature Christians.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He entrusts His people with responsibility. He does not just save them from sin—He invites them into His work and His kingdom. The fact that believers will one day judge angels is not about power but about sharing in God’s purposes.
God’s love is also reflected in His desire for justice. He does not want His children to be treated unfairly or to treat others unjustly. That is why He calls them to handle disputes with wisdom and fairness. By learning to judge rightly now, believers are preparing for the greater role God has for them in the future.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate Judge. He has been given all authority (John 5:22), and believers will reign with Him (Revelation 3:21). The only reason Christians will judge angels is because they are united with Christ, who is the true King.
Jesus also taught His followers to handle conflicts with wisdom and grace. In Matthew 18:15-17, He gave a process for resolving disputes within the church. He emphasized reconciliation, not revenge. His example shows that justice should always be accompanied by mercy.
At the cross, Jesus settled the greatest conflict of all—the conflict between sinful people and a holy God. Because of His sacrifice, believers are not only forgiven but also invited into His kingdom work. This verse points to that future role, reminding Christians that their calling is far greater than they often realize.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you that believers will one day judge angels?
- How does knowing your future role in God’s kingdom change the way you think about your responsibilities now?
- Have you ever been involved in a dispute with another believer? How did you handle it, and what could you have done differently?
- In what areas of your life do you need to grow in wisdom and discernment?
- How can you apply Jesus’ teaching on conflict resolution (Matthew 18:15-17) in your own relationships?
This verse is a powerful reminder that Christians are called to live with purpose and wisdom. Instead of acting like the world, they should prepare for their future role in God’s kingdom by practicing justice, unity, and discernment today.