How can Proverbs 26:20 guide us in resolving disputes within the church? The verse at a glance Proverbs 26:20 — “Without wood, a fire goes out; without gossip, a conflict ceases.” Not feeding the flame: what the proverb teaches • Fire needs continual fuel; conflict thrives on continual words. • “Wood” parallels the careless or malicious talk that keeps tensions alive. • When the fuel is withheld—silence replacing gossip—the blaze dies of its own accord. How this shapes our response to church disputes • Identify and stop the flow of gossip instead of trying to manage the flames it creates. • Encourage direct, private conversation between the parties rather than public commentary (Matthew 18:15). • Speak only words that build up and impart grace (Ephesians 4:29). • Model restraint: if we are not part of the solution, we refuse to carry tales. • Recognize that even “small” words can set a forest on fire (James 3:5-6), so every member has responsibility. Supporting Scriptures that echo the principle • Matthew 18:16-17 — Move gradually from private to wider counsel, never straight to public airing. • Galatians 5:15 — “If you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.” • 1 Peter 4:8 — “Love covers a multitude of sins,” choosing discretion over exposure. • Psalm 133:1 — “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” Practical steps for leaders and members 1. Establish a culture where rumors are gently but firmly confronted. 2. Provide safe, confidential avenues for grievances to be heard without publicity. 3. Teach regularly on the destructive power of gossip, using real-life illustrations. 4. Celebrate reconciliations publicly, reinforcing that peace, not strife, is the congregation’s norm. 5. Maintain transparency in decision-making to reduce the fertile ground where speculation grows. The promise when we obey • As gossip is removed, conflict “ceases” just as surely as a fire goes out when starved of fuel. • Unity and witness are strengthened; the watching world sees Christ’s love in action (John 13:35). |
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