How can we resolve disputes like Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15:2 today? Setting the Scene “ And after Paul and Barnabas had a sharp dispute and debate with them, the brethren appointed Paul and Barnabas and some of the others to go up to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem concerning this question.” (Acts 15:2) Principles Observed in Acts 15:2 • The disagreement was real and serious (“sharp dispute and debate”). • It centered on gospel truth, not personal preference. • The church body recognized the need for resolution and took action. • Trusted, mature leaders were commissioned to seek an answer. • Final authority rested in Scripture-guided, Spirit-led counsel from the apostles and elders. Applying These Principles Today • Identify the real issue: distinguish doctrinal essentials from non-essentials (Galatians 1:8-9; Romans 14:1-4). • Keep the discussion biblical: “All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). • Involve godly leadership: pastors, elders, or seasoned believers who can weigh matters impartially (Hebrews 13:17). • Talk face-to-face when possible, not through rumors or social media (Matthew 18:15). • Listen first, speak second (Proverbs 18:13; James 1:19). • Maintain humility and love: “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), “bearing with one another” (Colossians 3:13). • Seek consensus under the Spirit’s guidance, not majority vote alone (Acts 15:28). • Publicly communicate the agreed-upon conclusion so the whole body can rejoice and obey (Acts 15:30-31). • Continue fellowship: guard unity “in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Scripture-Driven Conflict-Resolution Checklist □ Is the gospel at stake? (Galatians 2:5) □ Have I prayed for wisdom? (James 1:5) □ Have I studied relevant passages? (Psalm 119:105) □ Have I approached the other party privately first? (Matthew 18:15-16) □ Have I invited impartial, mature believers if needed? (Proverbs 11:14) □ Am I willing to submit to the church’s decision? (Acts 15:22-29; 1 Corinthians 16:16) □ Will my attitude preserve love and unity? (1 Corinthians 13:1-7) Why It Matters Following the Acts 15 model guards doctrinal purity, models Christ-like love, and strengthens the witness of the church. When believers handle conflicts this way, “the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers” (Acts 16:5). |
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