What other biblical instances show conflict resolution among God's people? Starting Point: Joshua 22:12—A Near-Civil War Averted “Then the whole congregation of Israel assembled at Shiloh to go to war against them.” • The western tribes react to the altar built by Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. • Phinehas and ten chiefs seek clarification before drawing swords (22:15–34). • Listening, explanation, and shared worship defuse the crisis; unity is preserved. Abram & Lot: Peace over Possessions (Genesis 13:5-12) • Strife erupts between their herdsmen. • Abram proposes separation: “Is not the whole land before you? Please separate from me.” (v. 9) • Result: No quarrel, both flourish—an early model of yielding rights to keep family harmony. Moses Hears Jethro: Workload Conflict Resolved (Exodus 18:13-27) • People stand in line “from morning until evening.” • Jethro counsels delegation. • Moses “listened to the voice of his father-in-law and did everything he said.” (v. 24) • Lesson: Humble leaders accept wise advice to relieve tension and serve better. The Daughters of Zelophehad: Legal Equity through Dialogue (Numbers 27:1-11) • Five sisters appeal for inheritance rights. • Moses brings the case “before the LORD.” • God affirms their claim, adjusting the law for future generations. • Shows openness to legitimate petitions and willingness to amend procedures righteously. David & Abigail: Preventing Bloodshed (1 Samuel 25) • David, angered by Nabal, prepares retaliation. • Abigail’s timely gift and plea turn David’s heart: “Blessed be your discernment.” (v. 33) • Resolution through humble intercession and acknowledgment of impending sin. Solomon’s Wise Judgment: Settling a Family Dispute (1 Kings 3:16-28) • Two mothers claim one child. • Solomon seeks truth by revealing motives. • Justice delivered, nation gains confidence in godly wisdom. Nehemiah Confronts Economic Oppression (Nehemiah 5:1-13) • Jews oppress fellow Jews with loans and slavery. • Nehemiah calls an assembly, rebukes the nobles, leads in covenant renewal. • Conflict ends with restitution and public oath—leaders model repentance. Jesus’ Three-Step Plan for Personal Offense (Matthew 18:15-17) • Approach privately, then with witnesses, finally involve the church. • Goal is always restoration; discipline is redemptive, not punitive. Acts 6:1-7—Serving Tables, Preserving Unity • Greek-speaking widows feel neglected. • The apostles summon “the whole group of disciples” (v. 2). • Seven Spirit-filled men appointed; word of God spreads unhindered. Acts 15: The Jerusalem Council • Controversy: Must Gentiles be circumcised? • Open debate, Scripture citation (Amos 9), Spirit-guided consensus. • A letter communicates the decision, churches rejoice. Paul & Barnabas: Agree to Disagree (Acts 15:36-41) • Sharp disagreement over John Mark. • They part ways yet both continue fruitful ministry—conflict without bitterness. Paul and Corinth: Written, Tearful, yet Reconciled (2 Corinthians 7:8-13) • A severe letter brings sorrow “that led you to repentance.” (v. 9) • Result: renewed joy and strengthened fellowship. Key Threads to Notice • Seek facts before reacting (Joshua 22; Proverbs 18:13). • Value relationship above rights (Genesis 13; 1 Corinthians 6:7). • Invite impartial counsel (Exodus 18; Proverbs 11:14). • Let God’s Word and Spirit guide decisions (Acts 15; Psalm 119:105). • Aim for restoration, not victory (Matthew 18; Galatians 6:1). • Trust that obedience to God’s authoritative Word produces lasting peace (Isaiah 32:17). |
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