Can’t we all just get along? Unfortunately, the answer is no. In a perfect world we live together in harmony, but in reality we’re sinners who sometimes struggle to see eye to eye.
Jesus understands our human nature and knows we need tools to handle offenses among us, so He provides a simple and effective model. If you’ve been in Christian community for any period of time, you’re probably familiar with Matthew 18, a concisely written, time-tested, conflict-resolution strategy.
Not only is it preached from the pulpit, but quoted in the bylaws of every homeschool group or organization our family has joined.
In Matthew 18:15-16, Jesus states:
Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
As a people-pleasing peacemaker, my stomach squirms just thinking about telling someone they’ve offended me. What if they misunderstand my intentions or I offend them too?
Too often I ignore the biblical directive of Matthew 18 and hold onto hurt feelings or anger because I fear the outcome.
But what might happen if we avoid this hard step towards reconciliation?
Please join me today at (in)courage as we discuss this topic!
