Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Communication and Conflict (Colossians 3:12–4:1) - Part 2

Bryan Schneider · March 27, 2021

Colossians 3:12

sharonrpc.org/sermons/communication-and-conflict

Summary

Healthy communication begins by seeking Christ, putting off the old self, and putting on merciful, humble, patient love.
Christ's peace rules a church called into one body, while thankfulness weakens the discontent that often feeds conflict.
The Word of Christ must dwell richly in believers so that teaching, admonition, and singing are governed by wisdom and grace.
Every word and deed is done under Christ's lordship, including the distinct duties of wives, husbands, children, fathers, workers, and employers.
Biblical confrontation requires self-examination, prayer, right motives, willingness to carry burdens, and direct conversation rather than gossip.
Jesus' process in Matthew 18 escalates from private correction to witnesses and then the church, always seeking repentance and restored peace.

Is the Word of Christ shaping the timing, tone, purpose, and substance of my difficult conversations?
How is ingratitude intensifying a conflict in my home, church, or workplace?
Am I performing my present relational duties as service to the Lord rather than as leverage over another person?
Before confronting someone, have I examined my own sin, prayed for that person, and committed to bearing the resulting burden?
Have I spoken directly to the person involved, or have I spread the matter to people who cannot help resolve it?
Does my correction seek repentance and restored communion, or punishment and vindication?

Put on Christ: Living from union with Christ by replacing the old self's practices with his merciful, humble, patient, forgiving love.
Admonition: Wise, grace-giving warning from God's Word, offered at the right time and in the right manner for another's restoration.
Household duties: Christ-governed responsibilities appropriate to family and work relationships, each exercised under the Master in heaven.
Biblical confrontation: A direct and ordered response to serious sin that begins privately, avoids gossip, and seeks repentance and reconciliation.