When an Accusation Comes: Justice, Truth, and the Slow Work of Peace

This week a federal judge ruled that a defamation claim brought by David Sills, a former professor who lost his job over sexual misconduct allegations, may proceed against the Southern Baptist Convention's Executive Committee, Guidepost Solutions, Al Mohler and Southern Seminary. Most of his other claims were dismissed, and the judge ordered the parties to a settlement conference. We do not sit in judgment of any person here. We sit with the Scriptures and let them search us.

Begin with Proverbs 18:17: "In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and questions them." The verse is not cynical. It is patient. It tells us that a first account, however convincing, is not yet the whole account.

Hold that beside Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Justice and mercy are named together, in one breath, under humility.

For reflection: Where am I tempted to decide a matter before I have heard it fully? What would it look like to want the truth more than I want to be right?

Close with Matthew 5:9: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." A settlement conference is a worldly room. Peacemaking is a kingdom calling. Pray this week for everyone who must sit in such rooms.