Text: Mat 18:15-20
Relational conflict is hard. Facing it is uncomfortable. Experiencing conflict affects our daily rhythms and routines. Conflict can even cause us to doubt God’s goodness, His will for our lives, or His love for us. God often uses conflict to refine our character, teach us how to love our neighbor and ultimately draw us closer to Him.
Today we are going to be exploring some Biblical principles for conflict Resolution. As we look to the teaching of Christ Jesus and follow His guidance, may we experience peace and healing from the hurt of unresolved conflicts.
- Self Reflection: Mat 7:3-5. The first step in any biblical approach to conflict resolution is necessarily turning our gaze inward, inspecting our emotional responses, checking them against God’s Word. We cannot expect to experience peace if we haven’t first identified our role in the conflict.
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of Self Reflection?
- Go to your Brother: Mat 18:15, Mat 5:23-24. Oftentimes facing conflict head-on is the last thing we want to do. We’d rather bury our head in the sand, avoid the person who caused us pain, or try to pretend the offense did not occur. When Jesus said “go” it is important for you to know that it is not a call to declare war.
- Why does it appear easier to avoid addressing the person(s) you are in conflict with?
- From the text above what is your Obligation in Conflict Resolution, according to Jesus?
- . What is Active listening? What do you do and don’t do in active listening?
- What does Perspective taking mean ?
- How does active listening and Perspective taking help in conflict resolution?
Summary
The ability for every involved in a conflict to be held responsible for their actions is important in conflict resolution
