June 27, 2 Corinthians 10
Conflict seems to be inevitable among people who interact with one another about significant matters over time. Families have feuds, and churches do, too. It’s because we’re flawed people living in a fallen world. Weakness colors our very best behavior; flesh is always seeking opportunity to rebel against the lordship of Christ in our lives. Don’t you sometimes do less than your best? When we think, speak or behave in less than ideal ways, we bring tension into our relationships, even among fellow believers. Let’s look at Paul’s example as he dealt with people who discounted his ministry and authority. We can find a model in his method to resolve tensions in our own relationships.
Paul was meek and gentle as he entreated the Corinthians. He defended himself without being defensive (which often turns into being offensive). Meekness is not weakness; it is strength under control. We are imitating Christ himself when we deal gently with people in conflict whenever possible. Our flesh wants to raise its voice and throw its weight around. Long ago, Solomon observed that a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Paul knew how to be firm and stand his
ground. He would use apostolic authority if necessary. But his first approach was gentle entreaty. If we’d make it ours, we might resolve differences before they erupt into major confrontations.
When Paul fought, he did not wage war according to the flesh. Instead, he employed weapons of divine destruction when tensions threatened his life and ministry. He did not resort to fleshly tactics, and neither should we. In conflict, it’s tempting to reflect others’ actions and attitudes back at them, but that’s not the best strategy. Conflict does not have to be carnal. Godly people use godly means to meet ungodly opposition.
Paul never forgot the source or purpose of his apostolic authority. He knew his authority was from God, to build people up, not tear them down. Every leader in a church, a family or any organization should remember that leaders can have authority without being authoritarian. We chafe at the abuse of power. Being an authority-wielding bully may appear to be a shortcut to defusing tension, but it really only makes it worse.
Also remember it is pointless and unwise to measure and compare ourselves with one another. Seeking approval and commendation, we may judge ourselves to be more faithful, more effective, more disciplined, more loving, more spiritual, more fruitful than someone else. But Paul said people who make such comparisons lack understanding. When we commend ourselves, we’re only boasting. The only approval that counts for anything is the Lord’s approval. So why irritate and agitate one another by making pointless comparisons?
Perhaps you feel the same shame I do as I read these words. I don’t always deal with tension and conflict in wholesome, holy ways. But I’m glad to have Paul’s example to teach and encourage me to do better.
From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide for Your Journey Through the New Testament,
Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Today in God's Word—June 2024
East Tallassee Church of Christ
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