July 2, 2015
Scripture: Matthew 18:15-17
15 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.16But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’17If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
Questions for Reflection:
Matthew 18 prescribes a way in which we can deal with conflict with another person. What steps to restoring the relationship does Jesus teach? What is the first step that you should take if you have a problem with another person? How does this differ from what typically happens in our culture? What should you do if the first step does not solve the problem?
It’s helpful to remember when you’ve entered this process what the ultimate goal is. The goal of the process is not embarassment or getting your way; the goal is restore the relationship and help the other person. How does understnding the ultimate goal change how you approach these situations?
Is there someone that you need to have a crucial conversation with now? If so, pray for them. Pray that God would give you patience and grace as you walk and talk with them.