Conflict is something that every missions team experiences, no matter how big or small.
Sin is the root cause of conflict for non-Christians. Our nature is to conflict with God and each other.
Unbelief in the truth of the Gospel is the root cause of conflict for Christians.
“If we confess our sins he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9
“But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman. Born under law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ So you are no longer a slave but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.“ Galatians 4:4-7
Galatians 2:8-14 – Good Conflict (Paul confronting Peter in hypocrisy with gentiles)
“not acting in line with the truth of the Gospel.”
Why did Paul do it? In his core he was so convicted in the nature of the Gospel.
Matthew 16:18 – Peter the Rock, “Gates” – Protection; the Gates of Hades will not withstand the extension of the church.
Bad Conflict – Pastor Rob’s story about getting into a physical fight with another ST missionary while in Rio Di Janeiro.
10 rules for preventing and resolving conflict:
- Remember – It’s not about you! (Eph 4:2-6)
- Remember – Speak the truth in love. (Eph 4:15 & 4:25)
- Remember – Put off the old self and put on the new self. (Eph 4:22-25)
- Remember – In your anger do not sin. (Eph 4:26a)
- Remember – Do not let the sun go down on your anger. (avoiding the conflict) (Eph 4:26b-27)
- Remember – Work hard and contribute to your team. (Eph 4:28)
- Remember – Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths. (Eph 4:29)
- Remember – Get rid of relational malice. (bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander) (Eph 4:31)
- Remember – Be kind and compassionate to one another. (Eph 4:32a)
- Remember – Forgive each other just as Christ forgave you. (Eph 4:32b)
