Skip to main content

Featured Post

The Rise of 'My Truth' Culture – A Biblical Response

Post a Comment

How to Handle Conflict as a Christian?

How to Handle Conflict as a Christian

A Bible and notebook illustrating how Christians can handle conflict biblically

“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” – Romans 12:18 (KJV)

Conflict is inevitable in a fallen world, but how believers handle it reveals the depth of their walk with Christ. From family tensions to church disagreements, Christians are called to live peaceably, forgiving as Christ forgave. This guide offers a practical and theological roadmap to handling conflict biblically and with Reformed conviction.

Understanding the Root of Conflict

The Scriptures teach that conflict arises from the sinful desires within our hearts (James 4:1-3). At its core, all human strife stems from pride, self-interest, and failure to submit to God’s will. John Calvin noted, “The evil in our desires must be mortified if peace is to be established.”

The Biblical Mandate for Peacemaking

  • Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
  • Ephesians 4:3 – “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

These passages do not simply call for the absence of strife but for the active pursuit of reconciliation. The Reformed tradition understands peacemaking as both an internal spiritual posture and an external work of obedience rooted in the gospel.

Practical Steps to Handle Conflict Biblically

  1. Examine Your Heart: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal pride, bitterness, or anger in you. (Psalm 139:23-24)
  2. Go in Humility: Approach the other person with meekness, seeking to understand, not just to be understood. (Philippians 2:3)
  3. Speak the Truth in Love: Avoid gossip and slander. Use words seasoned with grace. (Ephesians 4:15, Colossians 4:6)
  4. Forgive Generously: As God forgave you in Christ, so also forgive. (Ephesians 4:32)
  5. Seek Wise Counsel if Needed: In serious conflicts, a pastor or elder can offer biblical guidance. (Proverbs 15:22)
  6. Trust God's Sovereignty: Even unresolved conflicts are not outside God’s purposes. (Romans 8:28)

Conflict Within the Church

Church disputes can be especially painful. The Apostle Paul pleaded for unity in the body (1 Corinthians 1:10). The Reformed confessions emphasize church discipline, not as a punitive measure, but as a restorative one. John Owen wrote, “The church is to bear with the weak, but not with scandal.” Resolution should always aim at repentance and reconciliation, not winning an argument.

The Example of Christ

Jesus Christ is our model. He was reviled but did not revile in return (1 Peter 2:23). He bore our sins to reconcile us to God and calls us to be ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). True Christian conflict resolution mirrors the gospel—it seeks truth, extends mercy, and honors God.

Application

Are you holding on to a grievance? Is there someone you need to forgive? Let the gospel compel you to reconcile. Remember, conflict is not just about resolving issues—it’s an opportunity to demonstrate the transforming power of grace. Be a peacemaker, and in doing so, you reflect the heart of the Savior.

Reformed Quote

“Peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of righteousness.” – Herman Bavinck

Call to Action

Do you desire to grow in Christlike conflict resolution? Begin by searching the Scriptures and examining your heart. Subscribe to our blog for more Reformed insights on Christian living, and share this article to encourage others in the way of peace.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How to Start a Daily Bible Reading Habit: Practical Tips for Consistent Devotion

How to Start a Daily Bible Reading Habit: Practical Tips for Consistent Devotion As Christians, we are called to live by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4). One of the best ways to grow in our faith is by reading the Bible daily. But starting a daily Bible reading habit can feel overwhelming. Where do you begin? How do you stay consistent? In this post, I’ll share some practical tips to help you establish a daily Bible reading habit and deepen your relationship with God through His Word. 1. Start with a Plan The first step in developing a daily Bible reading habit is to have a clear plan. Decide which Bible translation works best for you, and consider a reading plan that suits your time and attention span. If you’re new to the Bible, a book like the Gospel of John or Proverbs can be a good place to start. Tip: Use a Bible app or a physical journal to track your progress. It’s easier to stay motivated when you see how far you’ve come. 2....
Post a Comment
Read more

What Does the Bible Say About the War in Israel, Iran, and the Nations?

What Does the Bible Say About the War in Israel, Iran, and the Nations? In recent years, the conflict in the Middle East has intensified, particularly between Israel and Iran, with neighboring nations becoming increasingly entangled in war and political turmoil. For Christians—whether seminary-trained theologians, faithful Bible students, or seekers of truth—such developments provoke serious reflection. Does the Bible speak to the events we are witnessing? How should we interpret modern wars in light of ancient Scripture? Most importantly, how do we respond in faith? This article explores the war between Israel and Iran through a theological lens, grounded in Scripture and history. It avoids speculative sensationalism and offers a sober, biblically faithful perspective shaped by God’s sovereignty, justice, and redemptive plan. 1. The Bible’s Grand Narrative: God’s Sovereign Rule Over History A foundational biblical truth is that God is not distant from the affairs o...
Post a Comment
Read more