February 5th – February 11th, 2023
Sermon Summary
Human beings are prone to holding on to grudges and prolonging disputes. When an argument is left to fester, it will become like cancer and destroy the whole. However, when it is resolved with the oneness of mind that we have in Christ, and when others mediate faithfully and effectively, we can save the individual and the community.
Verse of the Week
Philippians 4:2 (ESV)
3“I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord.”
Going Deeper
Review Philippians 4:2–3
1a) Describe the process outlined in Matthew 18:15-17 for confrontation and restoration of a believer who demonstrates disobedience to scripture in some area of their life.
2) Describe some of the characteristics of a church community where there is strong unity versus one where there is division.
3) With reference to scripture, identify 3 practical ways that believers can promote oneness of mind in a Christian community.
4) Scripture teaches us that Christ is the mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 9:15). What applications can we draw from Christ’s example in this regard, that will help us to be effective mediators between those who may be having conflict in their relationships?
5a) How would you explain the difference between the biblical concept of being a peacemaker as seen in Matthew 5:9 and Romans 12:18, and being a person who simply avoids conflict?
5b) Paul mentions the Book of Life in Philippians 4:3. What is the Book of Life? Where else does reference to it appear in scripture?
6) When you have accepted responsibility and asked forgiveness for a wrong you have committed against another person, and they are still not willing to forgive you, how much more responsibility do you have in trying to help the other person’s heart change?
Assess Your Life
1) To what extent are you pursuing reconciliation in your relationships where there is conflict?
a) I don’t know what I need to do to resolve conflict in my relationships.
b) There are some conflicts that I would like to resolve, but there are some relationships that I think that I would be better off without.
c) I am trying to follow biblical principles in resolving conflicts in my relationships, but sometimes find my human nature getting the better of me.
d) As I submit to the Holy Spirit’s leading, I am getting better at working on improving my relationships.
e) I am fully committed to improving every relationship in my life and in assisting others to improve theirs as well.
2) Are there any ways that you can work harder to stop conflict before it starts?
Application
1 What are three (3) areas that you change to improve your relationships with others, or to help others improve their relationships?
a)
b)
c)
2 Of the list above, which one(s) will you be intentional about working on this week?
I will ask
Sermon Main Points
As you strive to reconcile with joy, you must be mindful to:
Resolve conflict with oneness of mind.
Serve as a faithful and effective mediator.
Recall the good in others.
Sermon Reflection
What stood out for me in this sermon?
What is something I can do to remember this?
Quotes
When there are differences of opinion resulting in tension between individuals, fighting to be right does not resolve the issue. The focus should be on resolving conflict in a way that does not misrepresent the name of Christ. —Derek A. Ward
Prolonged disagreements are an indication that one is self-centered and not Christ-centered. —Derek A. Ward
A mediator is a person who intervenes between two parties to remove a disagreement or reach a common goal. If we are to be faithful and effective mediators, we must know and demonstrate the mind of Christ. —Derek A. Ward
Ponder these questions
Disputes are a common aspect of relationships, however…
- Are you quick to resolve conflicts based on your relationship with Christ?
- Are you open to having someone mediate between us?
- Are you willing to mediate between others?
- Are you intentional in recalling the good in the other person?
- Are you prone to hold on to the negative situation and allow it to grow like a cancer?
5 Day Study Plan
Use the Inductive Bible Study method to study these scriptures this week and remember to share with someone else.
Follow these steps
1. Observe the text. (What does the text say?)
2. Interpret the text. (What does the text mean?)
3. Apply the text. (What can I do as a result of what I have learnt?)
Day 1 - Philippians 2:1-2
Day 2 - Ephesians 2:14-17
Day 3 - 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
Day 4 - Romans 12:18
Day 5 - John 15: 12-13
For best results, this content should be read and prepared privately and then discussed in your small group or with family / friends. We were not created to do life alone - get connected with a small group and grow together.
Harvest Bible Chapel Barbados - 2023