SUMMARY: Conflict resolution
OVERVIEW: Jesus lays out a prescriptive plan for the way the church can and should address conflict.
BIG IDEA: Conflict resolution brings healing and hope.
KEY VERSE: Matthew 18:15 (Jesus to disciples)
If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I want you to live with other believers in a way that surprises non-believers. The way you love one another, forgive one another, and live in unity, reflects me. That doesn’t mean things will be perfect. The church is a body of broken people who need me. From time to time, you or someone in the church will say or do something foolish, and there will be hard feelings. When this happens, don’t let resentment or hatred build up. Don’t gossip about it with others. Go directly to the one who has hurt you and work it out.
Forgive others as often as they need it, and stay focused on the work I am doing in and around you. Don’t be afraid of sin. Meet it head-on, whether addressing it in your own life or the life of another. I am with you and ready to give you the courage, grace, and wisdom you need. Don’t allow sin to control your life. I am the Lord of your life.
NEXT STEP
Take a minute to identify someone you’ve struggled to love. Ask God for wisdom and the willingness to forgive and/or ask forgiveness. If appropriate, let them know you care about them, and you want to clear up your differences.
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