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Dive into the book of Philippians for insights on handling conflicts in relationships and fostering greater unity within the Christian community. Discover how addressing conflicts can lead to deeper intimacy and strengthen communal bonds. Learn practical steps and biblical truths to navigate conflicts with humility, compassion, and love, ultimately showcasing the transformative power of unity to the world. Explore the importance of unity over personal preferences and the significance of submission in achieving harmonious relationships. Find guidance on resolving conflicts and fostering unity as followers of Christ.
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Unity through Conflict Philippians 4:2-3
Philippians 4:2-3 2 I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. 3 Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have laboredside by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Truth #1 Conflict is inevitable in relationships. Therefore, Expect conflict whenrelating with other Christians.
The question this sermon addresses is… “How do we experience GREATER UNITY through conflict?”
Truth #2 When handled correctly, CONFLICT can be the CATALYST for greater COMMUNITY. (Intimacy)
Matthew 18:15 If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.
John 13:35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” -Jesus
Ephesians 4:1-3 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Philippians 1:27 Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel…
Truth #3 Our unity, as believers, is a primary evidence to the world that the power of the gospel message is true.
Truth #4 Our unity is more important than our preferences.
Application #1 Seek to know what the Bible teaches on all issues so that we can identify when a conflict is worth addressing and when it is just a preference or evidence of personal spiritual immaturity.
Philippians 2:1-4 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
Truth #5 Unity cannot be achieved without SUBMISSION from all parties.
Application #2 Apply these three steps when in conflict with someone at Mosaic: • Address the person you are in conflict with. Make known to them your hurts and frustrations. • Invite a few people (more as is necessary) in to offer guidance on how they think the conflict could be resolved. • Submit to the guidance offered.
Benediction: Ephesians 4:11-16 Psalm 133
Unity through Conflict Philippians 4:2-3