In the biblical context, a negotiator is an individual who acts as an intermediary to resolve conflicts, mediate disputes, or facilitate agreements between parties. The role of a negotiator is often seen in the light of wisdom, discernment, and the pursuit of peace, reflecting the biblical principles of reconciliation and harmony.

Old Testament Examples

One of the earliest examples of negotiation in the Bible is found in the account of Abraham. In Genesis 18:22-33, Abraham acts as a negotiator with God concerning the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham intercedes on behalf of the righteous within the city, demonstrating the qualities of boldness and compassion. He appeals to God's justice and mercy, saying, "Far be it from You to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?" (Genesis 18:25).

Another notable negotiator is Moses, who frequently interceded on behalf of the Israelites. In Exodus 32:11-14, after the Israelites sinned by worshiping the golden calf, Moses pleads with God to spare them from destruction. Moses appeals to God's promises and reputation, effectively negotiating for the people's forgiveness and continued relationship with God.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. While not a negotiator in the traditional sense, His role as the mediator is foundational to Christian theology. 1 Timothy 2:5 states, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" . Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus reconciles humanity to God, embodying the ultimate act of mediation.

The Apostle Paul also exemplifies negotiation in his epistles. In Philemon, Paul writes to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave. Paul tactfully appeals to Philemon's sense of Christian love and duty, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness. He writes, "I appeal to you for my child Onesimus, whose father I became while I was in chains" (Philemon 1:10), demonstrating the power of negotiation grounded in love and mutual respect.

Biblical Principles for Negotiation

The Bible provides several principles that guide the process of negotiation:

1. Wisdom and Discernment: Effective negotiation requires wisdom, which is a recurring theme in the book of Proverbs. Proverbs 16:21 states, "The wise in heart will be called discerning, and pleasant speech increases learning" . A negotiator must be able to discern the underlying issues and communicate effectively.

2. Peace and Reconciliation: The pursuit of peace is a central biblical value. Matthew 5:9 declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" . Negotiators are called to seek reconciliation and peace, reflecting God's desire for harmony among His people.

3. Integrity and Honesty: Negotiation should be conducted with integrity and honesty. Proverbs 12:22 emphasizes, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight" . Trustworthiness is essential for successful negotiation.

4. Humility and Patience: Humility and patience are vital attributes for a negotiator. James 1:19 advises, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger" . A negotiator must be willing to listen and understand all perspectives before reaching a resolution.

In summary, the role of a negotiator in the Bible is deeply rooted in the principles of wisdom, peace, integrity, and humility. These qualities are essential for resolving conflicts and fostering reconciliation, reflecting the heart of God for His people.(n.) One who negotiates; a person who treats with others, either as principal or agent, in respect to purchase and sale, or public compacts.

A Charge.
... For Christ does not wish to appoint you either a judge or an arbitrator in business,
or negotiator of the secular affairs of the present life, lest, being ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/unknown/epistle of peter to james/chapter v a charge.htm

Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of ...
... of the sufferers from the violence of Constantius, as the composer of a useful
conspectus of arguments against Arianism, as an unsuccessful negotiator for an ...
/.../introduction chapter i the life and.htm

Knox's Intrigues, and his Account of Them, 1559
... {152a}. Cecil, prior to the compact of July 24, had wished to meet Knox at Stamford.
On July 30 Knox received his instructions as negotiator with England. ...
/.../lang/john knox and the reformation/chapter xi knoxs intrigues and.htm

Negotiator (3 Occurrences)
... public compacts. Multi-Version Concordance Negotiator (3 Occurrences). Hebrews
8:6 But, as a matter of fact, the ministry which Christ ...
/n/negotiator.htm - 7k

Nehel'am (3 Occurrences)
Nehel'am. Negotiator, Nehel'am. Nehelamite . Multi-Version Concordance
Nehel'am (3 Occurrences). ... Negotiator, Nehel'am. Nehelamite . Reference Bible.
/n/nehel'am.htm - 7k

Negotiate (1 Occurrence)

/n/negotiate.htm - 7k

Nobler (2 Occurrences)
... Hebrews 8:6 But, as a matter of fact, the ministry which Christ has obtained is
all the nobler a ministry, in that He is at the same time the negotiator of a ...
/n/nobler.htm - 7k

Offences (21 Occurrences)
... Hebrews 9:15 And because of this He is the negotiator of a new Covenant, in order
that, since a life has been given in atonement for the offences committed ...
/o/offences.htm - 12k

Graciously (24 Occurrences)
... Hebrews 12:24 and to Jesus the negotiator of a new Covenant, and to the sprinkled
blood which speaks in more gracious tones than that of Abel. (See RSV). ...
/g/graciously.htm - 13k

Tones (2 Occurrences)
... (See NAS). Hebrews 12:24 and to Jesus the negotiator of a new Covenant, and to the
sprinkled blood which speaks in more gracious tones than that of Abel. (WEY). ...
/t/tones.htm - 6k

Sprinkled (55 Occurrences)
... (See RSV). Hebrews 12:24 and to Jesus the negotiator of a new Covenant, and to the
sprinkled blood which speaks in more gracious tones than that of Abel. ...
/s/sprinkled.htm - 24k

Sublimer (1 Occurrence)
... Hebrews 8:6 But, as a matter of fact, the ministry which Christ has obtained is
all the nobler a ministry, in that He is at the same time the negotiator of a ...
/s/sublimer.htm - 6k

Promised (150 Occurrences)
... Hebrews 9:15 And because of this He is the negotiator of a new Covenant, in order
that, since a life has been given in atonement for the offences committed ...
/p/promised.htm - 37k

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