Does the Bible say anything about lawsuits / suing?

from the old testament

• Proverbs advises caution before taking someone to court. “Do not hastily bring into court, for what will you do in the end, when your neighbor puts you to shame?” (Proverbs 25:8). The wise approach is to try resolving issues privately first: “Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another’s secret” (Proverbs 25:9). Rushing to sue can lead to public embarrassment and long-lasting damage to your reputation—“lest he who hears you bring shame upon you, and your ill repute have no end” (Proverbs 25:10). The main point is practical and moral: settle disputes quietly, respect the dignity of others, and seek peace before going to court (cf. Proverbs 17:14).
• Careful listening can prevent lawsuits—or at least reduce their impact: “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame” (Proverbs 18:13). Initial claims often seem convincing until the other side is heard: “The one who states his case first appears right, until the other comes and examines him” (Proverbs 18:17). Wisdom helps us slow down to gather facts, test claims, and consider witnesses (cf. Deuteronomy 19:15). That patient process often uncovers a path to resolution, diminishes escalation, and minimizes harm even when legal action is still needed.

from the new testament

• Civil authority is divinely given and meant to restrain evil and protect life. Paul states that governing authorities are “instituted by God” to be “a terror” to bad conduct and “an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer” (Romans 13:1–4).
• Paul used lawful protections as a Roman citizen, protesting unlawful beating (Acts 22:25–29) and appealing to Caesar when his case required it (Acts 25:10–12). Lawsuits that address real, physical harm or criminal wrongdoing can therefore be a legitimate use of the state’s God-ordained role.
• Yet not every wrong belongs in civil court; when the issue is sin or a personal grievance between believers, Jesus guides His followers to a different approach focused on restoration rather than legal action. He said, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector” (Matthew 18:15–17). This slow, careful path seeks repentance, protection of the wronged, and restoration of fellowship, often making civil action unnecessary. Its purpose is not to punish a sinning believer but to bring them back into loving fellowship.
• Paul cautions that taking ordinary church disputes to unbelieving courts damages the church’s witness among non-believers. He rebukes the Corinthians for believer-against-believer lawsuits, asking why the cases aren’t being resolved by “those who are wise” within the church (1 Corinthians 6:1–6). Public lawsuits over personal issues bring shame to Christ’s followers and reveal a heart more interested in winning than in loving; Paul even says it would be better “to suffer wrong” than to defraud a brother (1 Corinthians 6:7–8).
• The Christian's priority is to uphold the credibility of the gospel and foster mutual reconciliation. This aligns with the Christian’s aim to “live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18).
• That pursuit includes seeking mature counsel from qualified leaders and wise believers who can help navigate complex conflicts toward truth and peace (cf. Hebrews 13:17; Galatians 6:1). It also includes praying to God for wisdom (James 1:5). With patient guidance, prayer, and a willingness to forgive, many disputes can be resolved in a way that honors Christ, protects the vulnerable, and minimizes the need for courts.

implications for today

If you're considering a lawsuit, start by asking what kind of wrong it is. If it involves real, physical harm, coercion, fraud, or an ongoing threat—and especially if the offender is an unbeliever—civil authority is there for this purpose. God appoints governing authorities to restrain evil and protect life, so using lawful means in such cases can be right and wise. Carefully document the facts, seek legal advice, and pursue justice without vengeance, aiming to “live peaceably with all” as far as it depends on you (Romans 12:18).

If the dispute is with another believer over sin or a personal wrong, your first step should follow Jesus’ process: speak privately with your offending brother or sister and try to resolve the issue. If he or she refuses to listen, bring one or two others who can witness your talks and offer help. If others confirm that the other believer is sinning, the church should become involved (Matthew 18:15–17). Aim for repentance and restored fellowship. Civil action may still be necessary in some cases (e.g., crimes, ongoing danger), but start with the method Scripture provides.

If you're unsure whether a matter is a civil issue, seek guidance from a mature believer or church leader. Share the situation without revealing the other party’s identity to protect his or her privacy until the process requires involving others. Pray for wisdom, pursue truth humbly, and speak and act in ways that honor Christ.