RESOLVING CONFLICT

      Matthew 18:15-20

  I.  Much of the Bible deals with conflict.

      A.  Adam blames Eve.

      B.  Cain murders Able.

      C.  Joseph struggles with his brothers.

      D.  Jacob cheats Esau.

      E.  Jezebel tries to kell Elijah.

      F.  Saul tries to kill David.

      G.  Jews try to trick and later try to kill Jesus.

      H.  Paul and Barnabas argue over John Mark.

  II. There is a principle to keep us from conflict. Ephesians 4:29-30

  III. The principles about conflict

      A.  Conflict is natural in relationships.

      B.  Conflict can be a vehicle for personal growth.

      C.  We cannot get away from conflict; we must learn to deal with it.

 IV. Types of conflict

       A.  There is conflict inside ourselves.  Psalms 51

       B.  There can be conflict between people. Philippians 4:2

       C.  There can be conflict over our opinions. Mark 9

  V.  How did Jesus deal with conflict?

       A.  He avoided it.  John 19:8-9

       B.  He didn't argue but started where they were

            and dealt with the problem.  Matthew 16:6-2

      C.  He dealt with conflict directly.   Matthew 21:12

      D.  He established common ground from which to teach.  John 4:24-28

      E.  He reasoned together.  John 21:15-19

VI. The conflict resolution process Matthew 18:15-20

      A.  Two people negotiate

      B.  Two opposing sides use a mediator

      C.  Take the problem to the church.

      D.  Litigation in the courts is forbidden.

VII. This lesson is intended to give us tools to deal

       with a real issue which is present in everyday life.

Be back tonight at 6 PM for our evening Worship. Tonight our speaker is
Daryl Cobb . We look forward to hearing him speak. .

Wednesday Bible Study At 7:00 pm. Our instructor this week is Duane Tolbertson .
We will continue with our class “Did You Miss The Rapture?.” Please join us.