What is the crippling effect of conflict in the church?

Rather than "...live by the Spirit" (Galatians 5:16, NIV ) the church, in many cases, chooses to "...stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers (Psalm 1:1, NIV).  Conflict takes away the energy and focus of the church from the things that matter most.  How can a Christian honestly bring the gospel of peace to an unbeliever when a battle is raging at his own church?  Conflict also disheartens the congregation.  This makes it difficult to promote the ministry of the church in the community.  Who wants to invite their friends to get involved in a church that is fighting internally?  Certainly, Satan uses the tactic of triggering strife and controversy to keep the church from fulfilling its great commission from our Lord (Matthew 28:19-20).  Conflict also undermines relationships which form the basis of teamwork in the church.  Paul and Barnabas had a bitter dispute over the role of John Mark (Acts 15:36-40).  Ultimately, they divided and undertook two different missions because they disagreed about a team member.

Churches function more effectively in ministry when people are working together.  Conflict hinders the effectiveness of ministry by crippling the teamwork.  Failing to resolve conflict has a lasting effect on the ministry of the church.  It is tragic to see how the unbelieving world is left to its own futile existence while the church debates whether to borrow money or save to build a bigger building.  Unresolved conflict has a numbing effect on the congregation and quenches the spirit of the church leaders.
 

Our Creator God loves you and wants you to know Him! If you would like to contact this ministry for further information or questions, please send your e-mail to:
Email: ministryrequest1@WordTruth.Com
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Copyright 5/23/2001, Randy Lariscy.