Navigating Conflict with Grace and Love
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we delved into Acts 15:36-41, focusing on the conflict between Paul and Barnabas over whether to take Mark on their second missionary journey. This passage highlights the inevitable nature of conflict within the body of Christ and how it can be handled in a way that glorifies God. Paul and Barnabas had a sharp disagreement because Paul did not trust Mark, who had previously abandoned them. This led to their separation, with Barnabas taking Mark and Paul choosing Silas.
We explored the background of Paul’s first missionary journey, where Mark initially accompanied them but left early on. This abandonment likely influenced Paul's decision not to take Mark again. Paul, a man of extreme passion and discipline, might have viewed Mark's earlier departure as a sign of unreliability, especially given the dangerous and hostile environments they faced. On the other hand, Barnabas, known for his encouraging nature, saw potential in Mark and wanted to give him another chance.
Conflict is inevitable, even among believers, but it is also an opportunity to glorify God. Jesus emphasized that the world would recognize His disciples by their love for one another, especially in times of conflict. Handling disagreements with grace and love is a powerful testimony to the world. Unity can be maintained despite conflict, and it is crucial to cover one another in love, just as we would in a marriage. Gossip and slander should be avoided, and instead, we should pray for one another, seeking each other's growth and well-being.
In conclusion, unresolved conflict can lead to bitterness, which hinders our worship and relationship with God. Praying for those we are in conflict with helps to soften our hearts and align our mission with God's will. As we reflect on any unresolved conflicts in our lives, let us allow the Holy Spirit to bring healing and peace.
### Key Takeaways
1. Conflict is Inevitable in the Body of Christ: Conflict will arise among believers, just as it did between Paul and Barnabas. It is not a sign of failure but an opportunity to glorify God through our response. Handling conflict with grace and love demonstrates our discipleship to the world. [54:25]
2. Love is the True Mark of Discipleship: Jesus taught that the world would know His disciples by their love for one another, not by their miracles or success. Genuine love is tested in times of conflict, and our response can be a powerful testimony to others. [58:48]
3. Unity Can Be Maintained Despite Conflict: Disagreements do not have to lead to disunity. By covering one another in love and avoiding gossip and slander, we can maintain unity even in the face of conflict. This is similar to how a husband and wife protect each other’s dignity. [01:06:35]
4. Prayer is Essential in Resolving Conflict: Praying for those we are in conflict with helps to soften our hearts and align our mission with God's will. It is difficult to harbor bitterness against someone when we are genuinely praying for their well-being and growth. [01:12:38]
5. Unresolved Conflict Hinders Worship: Bitterness and unforgiveness can fester and turn into hatred, making it difficult to worship God sincerely. Addressing and resolving conflicts is crucial for maintaining a pure heart and a genuine relationship with God. [01:11:01]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[37:53] - Introduction to Acts 15:36-41
[38:47] - Paul and Barnabas' Disagreement
[40:16] - Background of Paul's First Missionary Journey
[41:24] - Mark's Departure and Its Impact
[42:25] - Opposition and Miracles in Iconium and Lystria
[43:26] - Paul's Stoning and Resurrection
[46:10] - Paul's Perspective on Mark
[47:20] - Paul's Discipline and Passion
[48:12] - Understanding Paul's Mindset
[53:23] - Barnabas' Perspective
[54:25] - Conflict is Inevitable
[58:02] - Biblical Response to Conflict
[58:48] - Love as the Mark of Discipleship
[01:06:35] - Maintaining Unity Despite Conflict
[01:12:38] - The Power of Prayer in Conflict Resolution
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 15:36-41
2. John 13:34-35
3. Proverbs 25:19
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the main reason for the conflict between Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15:36-41? [38:47]
2. How did Paul and Barnabas handle their disagreement about Mark? [39:00]
3. According to John 13:34-35, what is the new commandment Jesus gives to His disciples, and how does it relate to the way they should handle conflict?
4. What does Proverbs 25:19 say about trusting a treacherous person, and how might this have influenced Paul's decision regarding Mark? [47:20]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul was so adamant about not taking Mark on the second missionary journey? Consider his past experiences and personality. [46:10]
2. How does Barnabas' perspective on giving Mark a second chance reflect his character and approach to ministry? [53:23]
3. In what ways does handling conflict with grace and love serve as a testimony to others about our discipleship? [58:48]
4. How can unresolved conflict hinder our worship and relationship with God, according to the sermon? [01:11:01]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent conflict you had with a fellow believer. How did you handle it, and what could you have done differently to glorify God in that situation? [54:25]
2. Jesus said that the world would know His disciples by their love for one another. How can you demonstrate genuine love in times of conflict within your church community? [58:48]
3. Think of a person you are currently in conflict with. How can you start praying for their well-being and growth this week? [01:12:38]
4. Have you ever experienced bitterness from unresolved conflict? How did it affect your worship and relationship with God? What steps can you take to resolve it? [01:11:01]
5. How can you avoid gossip and slander when dealing with disagreements in your church or small group? What practical steps can you take to cover others in love? [01:06:35]
6. Consider a time when you felt betrayed or let down by someone in your ministry. How did you respond, and what can you learn from Paul's and Barnabas' responses to Mark's earlier departure? [46:10]
7. How can you foster unity in your small group or church despite inevitable conflicts? Share specific actions you can take to maintain unity and protect each other's dignity. [01:07:39]
Devotional
Day 1: Conflict is an Opportunity to Glorify God
Conflict is inevitable in the body of Christ, as demonstrated by the disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over Mark. This conflict was not a sign of failure but an opportunity to glorify God through their response. Paul, known for his discipline and passion, viewed Mark's earlier departure as a sign of unreliability, especially given the dangerous environments they faced. Barnabas, on the other hand, saw potential in Mark and wanted to give him another chance. Their disagreement led to a separation, but both continued their missionary work, showing that conflict does not have to hinder God's mission.
Handling conflict with grace and love is a powerful testimony to the world. Jesus emphasized that the world would recognize His disciples by their love for one another, especially in times of conflict. By responding to disagreements with grace, believers can demonstrate their discipleship and glorify God. This approach to conflict can maintain unity within the body of Christ and serve as a witness to others. [54:25]
Acts 15:39-40 (ESV): "And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord."
Reflection: Think of a recent conflict you had with a fellow believer. How can you approach this situation with grace and love to glorify God?
Day 2: Love is the True Mark of Discipleship
Jesus taught that the world would know His disciples by their love for one another, not by their miracles or success. Genuine love is tested in times of conflict, and our response can be a powerful testimony to others. The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over Mark was a test of their love and commitment to each other and to God's mission. Despite their sharp disagreement, both continued their work, showing that love can prevail even in difficult situations.
In times of conflict, it is essential to remember that love is the true mark of discipleship. By responding to disagreements with love and grace, believers can demonstrate their commitment to Jesus and His teachings. This approach not only maintains unity within the body of Christ but also serves as a powerful witness to the world. [58:48]
John 13:34-35 (ESV): "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
Reflection: Think of a time when you were in conflict with someone. How did you respond? How can you show genuine love in future conflicts?
Day 3: Unity Can Be Maintained Despite Conflict
Disagreements do not have to lead to disunity. By covering one another in love and avoiding gossip and slander, believers can maintain unity even in the face of conflict. This is similar to how a husband and wife protect each other’s dignity. The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas did not lead to disunity; instead, they continued their missionary work separately, showing that unity can be maintained despite conflict.
Maintaining unity in the body of Christ requires a commitment to love and respect one another, even in times of disagreement. By avoiding gossip and slander and instead praying for one another, believers can protect each other's dignity and maintain unity. This approach not only strengthens the body of Christ but also serves as a powerful witness to the world. [01:06:35]
Ephesians 4:2-3 (ESV): "With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Reflection: Think of a conflict you are currently facing. How can you maintain unity and protect the other person's dignity in this situation?
Day 4: Prayer is Essential in Resolving Conflict
Praying for those we are in conflict with helps to soften our hearts and align our mission with God's will. It is difficult to harbor bitterness against someone when we are genuinely praying for their well-being and growth. The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over Mark could have led to bitterness, but by continuing their missionary work and praying for one another, they were able to align their mission with God's will.
Prayer is a powerful tool in resolving conflict. By praying for those we are in conflict with, we can soften our hearts and seek God's guidance in resolving the disagreement. This approach not only helps to resolve the conflict but also strengthens our relationship with God and with one another. [01:12:38]
Matthew 5:44 (ESV): "But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
Reflection: Think of someone you are in conflict with. Can you commit to praying for their well-being and growth every day this week?
Day 5: Unresolved Conflict Hinders Worship
Bitterness and unforgiveness can fester and turn into hatred, making it difficult to worship God sincerely. Addressing and resolving conflicts is crucial for maintaining a pure heart and a genuine relationship with God. The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over Mark could have led to bitterness, but by addressing the conflict and continuing their missionary work, they were able to maintain their relationship with God and with one another.
Unresolved conflict can hinder our worship and relationship with God. By addressing and resolving conflicts, we can maintain a pure heart and a genuine relationship with God. This approach not only strengthens our relationship with God but also serves as a powerful witness to the world. [01:11:01]
Matthew 5:23-24 (ESV): "So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift."
Reflection: Think of any unresolved conflicts in your life. How can you take steps to address and resolve these conflicts to maintain a pure heart and a genuine relationship with God?
Quotes
1. "Like Jessica mentioned today, we're going to talk about the importance of how to handle conflict in the body of Christ. And as we kind of look at this passage here in verse 15, Paul is getting ready. Paul. And Barnabas are getting ready to head out on their second journey on their mission trip. And on this particular situation, Barnabas says, hey, let's go take Mark with us again. And Paul is like, no. When we were out earlier on our first mission trip at the beginning of it, Mark left and went back to Jerusalem. No, we're not. We're not like we're not going to take him." [38:47] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So, loyalty was something that Paul took very seriously. If I could surmise what I assume Paul may have been thinking during this time. So, this is where this riff comes in. And for some of you who are like, can you make it even plainer? Okay, look. If you got stoned to death, and the guy that was like supposed to be there with you wasn't there, and then he tries to come in later on, you may feel some kind of way. Just saying." [48:12] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God loves you. Wipe your tears. Let's get back to the gospel. Let's get back to making Jesus known. You need some people in your life to just be real, to be honest with you, who will tell you it like it is. Right. We all have friends in our life who won't do that. But every now and then you get those few who go, look, I don't think they're the issue. I think you're the issue. Right. Love you enough to just. Address those flaws. Address those areas where you need to grow." [53:45] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Conflict will arise. It will arise within the body of Christ. Conflict is going to happen. And just to kind of tag on to what Jess was saying, that conflict is inevitable. It's the same thing if you're hanging out with some strange couple and they're like, yeah, me and my husband or me and my wife never argue. OK, you're in a cult. OK, there's no such thing. OK. There's no such thing. Oh, my kids are perfect. They never do. No, no such thing. OK. You have a robot for a child, an Android. No such thing. It's going to happen. Right. And God has set up things in place biblically in the way we respond when conflict arises." [58:02] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Isn't that interesting? That the Bible doesn't describe disciples or children of God by their ability to give financially or by how many miracles, signs, and wonders an individual is able to produce or how successful you are or how big your ministry is. No. You will know God's children. You will know the followers. You will know the followers of Jesus by the love they have for one another internally." [59:40] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "It's really hard to hate somebody you pray for. One of the things that has helped me and Jessica. And many of your other relationships is that we have to consistently pray for one another. It's a powerful thing. And here's the thing. When I say pray for one another, I'm not saying, oh, God, I pray that you let Jessica see how wrong she is. No, no, no, no. When I'm praying for, you're not my enemy, but I pray for my enemies, and I pray for my relationships. God, bless my wife. God, increase her, Lord. Help her to draw closer to you. Help her to know how much she is loved. When you begin to pray for another individual's benefit and for their prosperity and for the grace of God on their life, your heart begins to connect to them." [01:13:32] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Unity can be maintained despite conflict. There's a thing that me and Jessica joke about because we've been in ministry for a lot of years now. And we're always very frightened of individuals that come to us from other churches. And they go, man, that last church was terrible. But you guys are the bestest ever. And I'm like, oh, no. Because the moment you see how fluid. How flawed we are and how much in need of a savior you are, you'll leave Paradox, go to the next church and go, those guys at Paradox, can't stand the coffee. But you guys here, A-OK, right?" [01:06:35] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "As a husband, I cover my wife, right? I don't want in any way for my wife to be exposed, right, or to look in a negative light. It doesn't mean we're trying to put on some fake Instagram facade. No, I'm not saying that. But it's just like this idea of, like, I want to make sure that when people look at my wife, they look at her as the beauty, the class, and the Christ-like righteousness in the way that I see her. And if there are flaws, I want to cover those. If there are character issues or whatever that she is growing in, that the Lord is leading her in, I don't want to put that at the dinner table in front of my in-laws." [01:07:39] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "And you might be able to fake it to the church, but God sees that in your heart, right? That unforgiveness, and it begins to fester, and eventually it begins to turn to hate, right? But there's a way, as believers, we can fight against conflict leading into disunity. And I think one of the strongest ways you can fight against that is by praying." [01:12:38] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "And just as it's time as we respond to be thinking through that and allow the Holy Spirit to break up that hardness, that callousness, and allow the freedom to take over your life. Allow God's freedom, allow God's peace to rapture your hearts during this response time. So just think about that. Amen? Amen." [01:13:32] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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