Matthew 18:15-20

READ MATTHEW 18:15-20!

 

This passage is about how to deal with a brother/sister in Christ that is in sin.  It is also a great example of how to handle conflict.  We use this passage as a Conflict Resolution Policy in the Homeschool Co-op that I am apart.  Below are tidbits from that policy!

"Because we are all sinners, misunderstanding and conflicts will occur in our group from time to time.  As we try to do in all things, we have used the scriptures to guide us on this matter and chosen to base our Conflict Resolution Policy off of the example given to us in Matthew 18."
 
"Most disputes or differences can be resolved if we will overlook offense and forgive the person who has offended us.  Very often conflict arises because of simple misunderstandings.  Because of this, we ask that if you have a conflict, you pray about the issue and decide if it is important enough to require confrontation.  If after prayer you feel the offense or circumstance must be addressed, we ask that you seek to resolve the issue between the two individuals involved."
 
"If a resolution cannot be met, then seek the assistance of the Leadership team, starting with the Director, who will decide if more of the leadership needs to be involved.  The Leadership will make the final decision as to what will best resolve the issue."

The problem begins many times in the church because we do not follow these steps.  Many people skip the part of going directly to the other person one-on-one to get things right and just start allowing others into the situation by telling their side.  Let's be peacekeepers!  Let's learn to do things God's way! 

Whether a person is in a sin that needs to be addressed or you have a conflict, there are 3 steps that were outlined in the Word for us.  Go directly to them.  If they don't hear, bring a two or three witnesses.  If they still won't listen or the conflict isn't resolved, go to the Leadership in the church.