What can we learn from Moses' actions about handling conflict among believers? Setting the Scene: Moses in Acts 7:28 “ ‘Do you want to kill me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?’ ” (Acts 7:28) Stephen recounts the moment a fellow Hebrew confronted Moses. The question exposed Moses’ hidden act—killing an Egyptian oppressor (Exodus 2:11-14). Scripture presents the episode as literal history, giving a vivid snapshot of conflict among God’s people and how one man’s response both helps and warns us. What Moses Did Right—and Wrong Right: • He identified with his oppressed brothers (Exodus 2:11; Hebrews 11:24-25). • He had a passion for justice (Acts 7:24). Wrong: • He acted impulsively, taking justice into his own hands instead of waiting for God’s timing (Exodus 2:12; Romans 12:19). • He hid the sin, burying the Egyptian in the sand—conflict management through concealment never works (Proverbs 28:13). • The next day he tried to mediate without moral credibility; his earlier violence undercut his authority (Acts 7:27-28). Key Lessons for Handling Conflict Among Believers 1. Examine motives before acting. — Zeal without wisdom can turn righteous concern into fleshly retaliation (James 1:20; Galatians 5:13). 2. Resist taking vengeance. — “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but leave room for God’s wrath” (Romans 12:19). 3. Address issues openly, not secretly. — Hiding wrongdoing breeds mistrust; confession and transparency restore it (1 John 1:9). 4. Gain moral credibility first. — Jesus: “First take the plank out of your own eye” (Matthew 7:5). Moses’ buried sin eroded his voice among the Hebrews. 5. Use gentle restoration, not force. — “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately” (Matthew 18:15). — “Restore him with a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1). Moses chose force one day, confrontation the next; the gentle way aligns with God’s pattern. 6. Submit to God’s timing. — Forty years later, the Lord officially sent Moses as deliverer (Exodus 3). Waiting for divine commission prevents self-appointed authority and unnecessary strife. Supporting Scripture Insights • Proverbs 15:1 — “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” • 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 — Believers should settle disputes humbly within the fellowship, not by worldly methods. • James 4:1 — Conflicts often spring from desires at war within us; resolution begins in the heart. • Philippians 2:3-4 — Humility considers others above self, diffusing many quarrels before they ignite. Practical Takeaways for Today • Pause and pray before intervening in a dispute; invite God’s wisdom (James 1:5). • Check your heart: Are you driven by love for the brethren or by personal offense? • Choose transparent communication over secret maneuvering—no “burying in the sand.” • Approach the person privately first, with gentleness and Scripture in hand. • If needed, involve mature believers for mediation, following Matthew 18’s steps. • Trust the Lord to vindicate and bring justice; refuse revenge. • Let God shape your character in the waiting, so when He appoints you to act, you serve from credibility and Spirit-filled authority. Moses’ early misstep reminds us that zeal without surrender breeds conflict, but God’s pathway—humble, transparent, gentle, and patient—brings true peace among His people. |
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