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Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Resolving Conflict - Part 1

Bryan Schneider · March 20, 2021

Colossians 3

sharonrpc.org/sermons/resolving-conflict-part-1

Summary

  • Lasting peace with other people begins with union and peace with Christ, whose kingdom and identity replace self-centered aims.
  • Sin fractures both fellowship with God and human relationships, so believers must put to death sexual immorality, greed, anger, slander, corrupt speech, and lying.
  • Covetousness is idolatry because it fixes the heart on possessions and corrodes family, church, work, and stewardship.
  • Because Christians have put on the new self, they are to practice compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and love.
  • Communication is an arena of discipleship: tone, timing, electronic messages, and willingness to listen can either provoke conflict or impart grace.
  • The pattern and power for reconciliation are Christ's grace—people forgiven by him are called to become gracious and forgiving people.

Reflection and discussion

  • In a conflict, am I seeking Christ's kingdom or defending my own desires and reputation?
  • Which old pattern—anger, greed, slander, dishonesty, or corrupt desire—most often damages my relationships?
  • Do my tone and timing communicate kindness, especially in texts and email where intent is easily misunderstood?
  • Can I bear with a weakness or difference rather than treating every preference as a moral absolute?
  • Whom am I withholding forgiveness from despite the grace Christ has shown me?
  • What would it mean to put on humility and listen for the pain beneath another person's response?

Key terms

Union with Christ
The believer's identity and life in Jesus, from which reconciliation, holiness, and new conduct flow.
Putting off
Actively rejecting the sinful desires, speech, and habits belonging to the old way of life.
Putting on
Practicing the Christlike virtues appropriate to people renewed in God's image.
Forbearance
Patiently bearing another person's weaknesses and differences without turning every irritation into conflict.
Edifying speech
Communication intended to build another person up and impart grace rather than shame, slander, or destroy.

Notes and prayer