Topical Encyclopedia An arbitrator, in biblical terms, is an individual who is appointed to settle disputes or disagreements between parties, often serving as a mediator or judge. The concept of arbitration is rooted in the biblical principles of justice, fairness, and reconciliation. The role of an arbitrator is to bring about peace and resolution in accordance with God's laws and wisdom.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the role of an arbitrator is often associated with judges and leaders who were appointed to resolve disputes among the people of Israel. Moses, for example, served as an arbitrator for the Israelites, settling their disputes and teaching them God's statutes and laws. In Exodus 18:13-16, Moses is seen judging the people from morning until evening, a task that was later delegated to capable men who feared God, as advised by Jethro, Moses' father-in-law. The book of Job also references the need for an arbitrator. Job, in his suffering, longs for someone to mediate between him and God. In Job 9:33 , he laments, "Nor is there a mediator between us, to lay his hand upon us both." This highlights the human desire for an intermediary who can bridge the gap between man and the divine. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of arbitration is further developed through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus Himself is seen as the ultimate arbitrator, reconciling humanity to God through His sacrificial death and resurrection. In 1 Timothy 2:5 , it is stated, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." The apostle Paul also addresses the issue of disputes among believers in the church. In 1 Corinthians 6:1-6 , Paul admonishes the Corinthian church for taking their disputes before secular courts rather than resolving them within the church community. He encourages believers to appoint wise individuals from among themselves to act as arbitrators, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts in a manner that reflects Christian values and unity. Biblical Principles of Arbitration The Bible provides several principles that guide the process of arbitration: 1. Wisdom and Discernment: Arbitrators are called to exercise wisdom and discernment, seeking God's guidance in making fair and just decisions. Solomon's request for wisdom to govern the people (1 Kings 3:9) exemplifies the need for divine insight in arbitration. 2. Impartiality: An arbitrator must be impartial, not showing favoritism or bias. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly." 3. Reconciliation: The ultimate goal of arbitration is reconciliation and restoration of relationships. Matthew 5:9 states, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." 4. Community Involvement: Disputes should ideally be resolved within the community of believers, reflecting the unity and love that characterize the body of Christ. This principle is evident in the early church's practice of resolving conflicts internally, as seen in Acts 6:1-7. In summary, the role of an arbitrator in the Bible is deeply connected to the pursuit of justice, peace, and reconciliation, reflecting God's character and His desire for harmony among His people. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A person, or one of two or more persons, chosen by parties who have a controversy, to determine their differences. See Arbitration.2. (n.) One who has the power of deciding or prescribing without control; a ruler; a governor. Greek 3316. mesites -- an arbitrator, a mediator ... an arbitrator, a mediator. Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine Transliteration: mesites Phonetic Spelling: (mes-ee'-tace) Short Definition: a mediator, go-between ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3316.htm - 7k 3312. meristes -- a divider Library Whether it is Lawful for the Accused to Escape Judgment by ... The Condemnation of "The Three Chapters. " The Papacy Call to China and Voyage Hence Of Sin and Danger Incurred Even with a "Tolerant" Husband. Of the Soul and Body, and of Providence. A Charge. Argument: C??cilius, Somewhat Grieved at this Kind of Rebuke which ... Teaching with Authority Introduction to the Correspondence of St. Chrysostom, and the ... Thesaurus Arbitrator (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Arbitrator (1 Occurrence). Luke 12:14 But he said to him, "Man, who made me a judge or an arbitrator over you?" (WEB WEY NAS). ... /a/arbitrator.htm - 7k Mediation Mediator (7 Occurrences) Umpire (1 Occurrence) Daysman (1 Occurrence) Constituted (6 Occurrences) Arbitration (1 Occurrence) Arbonai Arbiter (3 Occurrences) Arbitrate (1 Occurrence) Resources Arbitrator: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Arbitrator (1 Occurrence)Luke 12:14 Subtopics Related Terms |