In this week's lesson from Philippians chapter 4, we see the Apostle Paul's instructions for how to respond to a disagreement between two women within the church. Upon reading the passage, you are likely to notice that he doesn't employ any of the latest methods and practices developed by psychologists to resolve conflict. There is no active listening or "I" messages. Instead, he directs them to find great joy in Jesus, to be gentle and not anxious, and finally to pray about it. This may seem like a strange approach from a worldly perspective, but let me explain why it is actually the most effective way to handle conflict when it arises (besides the obvious fact that it is instruction from scripture of course.)
For starters, we need to understand that conflict is rooted in our sinful nature. When my preferences or desires don't align with yours, then conflict and disagreement are born. I'm no psychologist, but even I can see that modern conflict resolution techniques are, at their most basic level, aimed at ultimately declaring someone right and someone wrong. The Bible tells us though, in most cases of conflict, both parties are actually at fault, because the wellspring of conflict is pride and selfishness. Sinful thoughts and attitudes are always the culprit because sin is the rejection of peace in exchange for chaos.
You see, God created all things according to his good and perfect will. The universe and everything in it is designed to function in an orderly fashion. Where order reigns, we find peace. Sin disrupts that order...it is the antithesis of order. As sinners living in a broken and fallen world, we perceive chaos all around us. All people know there is something wrong with the world around them, even those who choose not to acknowledge it. As Christians, we are reminded to look past the superficial disorder that we see, and instead find hope in knowing that order still reigns supreme. Sin may have disfigured the universe around us, but it didn't remake it. In other words, sin is not a creator, but rather a destroyer. The creator, God, is still in control. It is still his creation, and he is still at work redeeming and restoring all things unto himself; reestablishing order, and in so doing, restoring peace. This is why our joy and satisfaction are found not in worldly pursuits, but in Jesus. Hence, Paul's instruction to "rejoice in the Lord."
If the conflict between Euodia and Syntyche played out in our schools, workplaces, etc. today, the goal would be to "get to the bottom of things" and determine who wronged whom. It's the game that no one ever wins...we call it the "blame game." However, Paul doesn't ask, nor seem to be overly concerned with the circumstances surrounding the disagreement. Instead, his charge is for both parties (as well as everyone around them) to be marked by their reasonableness (i.e. humility), putting the needs of others above oneself. An environment of Christlike humility leaves little room for disagreement. This breeds peace. On the contrary, where people are focused inwardly on themselves, there is disorder; and where there is disorder, there is anxiety (a by-product of feeling like things are out of control).
Again, Paul reminds us that we need not be anxious because we, as believers, know that God is in control. When/if we have a need, we should take it to our Heavenly Father in prayer. He provides for and sustains us. In him, we have all that we need in life. That's not a promise of worldly health and prosperity, but rather one of a spiritual nature. The abundance of blessing given to Christians isn't one that can be measured by your bank account, the longevity of your years, or any number of other worldly benchmarks. However, our wealth in spirit as sons and daughters of the King and coheirs to the kingdom is immeasurable. When our focal point is beyond the temporal, in the eternal, then petty disputes over worldly matters no longer seem worthy of our time and energy. Instead we are able to focus on what really matters most.
When we are able to live in this way, we are able to experience the supernatural "peace of God, which surpasses all understanding." Not only do we get to live at peace and free from the distraction of conflict, but we also find that living in this peaceful state further protects us from things that seek to draw us back into the chaos. Thus we receive peace upon peace. Doesn't that sound like a much more appealing way to live???
In Grace,
Chris Morris
If you missed this week's sermon (or just want to listen again), follow the link below to listen. Or subscribe to our podcast in iTunes.
Part 11 - Exhortation, Encouragement, and Prayer
Questions discussed in this sermon:
1. How are we instructed to handle disagreements among believers?
2. What can we learn from Paul's encouragement for the Philippians?
3. How can Christians experience supernatural peace in life?
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