How does Judges 12:2 connect to Matthew 18:15 on resolving disputes? Setting the Scene in Judges 12:2 “Jephthah replied, ‘My people and I had a great conflict with the Ammonites, and when I called, you did not deliver me from their hands.’” (Judges 12:2) Jephthah reached out to Ephraim for help before war broke out. His private appeal went unanswered, the tension simmered, and the tribes ended up fighting each other (Judges 12:4-6). Jesus’ Pattern in Matthew 18:15 “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother.” (Matthew 18:15) Christ commands a face-to-face conversation as the first response to offense, aiming at restoration, not retaliation. How the Two Passages Connect • Direct communication – Jephthah “called” Ephraim; Jesus says “go … privately.” • Timeliness – Jephthah spoke before battle; Jesus teaches immediate action (Ephesians 4:26). • Personal responsibility – Jephthah initiated; Jesus puts the burden on the offended party to initiate. • Consequences of neglect – Ignoring Jephthah led to bloodshed; heeding Jesus wins a brother. • Accountability to God – Both situations unfold under God’s watchful eye (Romans 12:19; Hebrews 4:13). Principles for Resolving Disputes 1. Speak up early (Proverbs 17:14). 2. Go directly to the person, not to others (Proverbs 25:9). 3. State the issue clearly and listen carefully (James 1:19). 4. Seek restoration, not mere victory (Galatians 6:1). 5. If private appeal fails, follow Matthew 18:16-17. 6. Remember what neglect can cost—Judges 12 underscores the danger of letting conflict fester. Application Checklist ☐ Have I examined my own heart first? (Psalm 139:23-24) ☐ Have I approached the other person privately and humbly? ☐ Am I prepared to forgive as Christ forgave me? (Colossians 3:13) ☐ Will I pursue peace even at the expense of my pride? (Romans 12:18) Judges 12 shows the tragedy that follows ignored appeals; Matthew 18 shows the blessing that follows obeyed instruction. Choosing Christ’s way turns conflicts into opportunities for unity and grace (Psalm 133:1). |
    |