Conflict-Sunday Sept. 4th 2022

Sep 4, 2022

In the previous passages of John 8:38-47, we observed as Jesus directed His conversation from the new believers to the religious leaders. The tone of Jesus’ message changes, and it is directed at those who are conspiring to kill Him. In true form, Jesus addresses why they are doing this rather than what they are doing. As we enter verse 48, things begin to heat up to the point of name-calling on the part of the religious leaders. As these religious leaders engage in immature conflict, Jesus leads with purpose. He is part of the same conversation but refuses to play by their rules. Instead, He stays focused on His Father’s purpose rather than getting caught up in the conflict. Conflict is unavoidable. It will rise up in our homes, friendships, schools, and workplaces. Learning to lead conflict like Jesus rather than fall into immature conflict like the religious leaders is critical for our important relationships and necessary to advance the Kingdom of God. How do we respond when the people we have relationships with engage us in immature conflict? Do we match them in tone, behavior, and actions? Do we avoid it rather than lead it? Conflict will never be easy. Sometimes we will have conflict that will not resolve how we want it to, but when we lead rather than follow in conflict, we will find supernatural favor that will lead to spiritual covering. Let’s read the passage.