How can we best handle disagreements among believers? - Disagreement - TouchPoints

1 Corinthians 1:10I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.

We can best handle our disagreements by always trying to be of one mind, seeking to find a common purpose. A good place to start is to remember that we are all children of God, all bought by the blood of Jesus, all called to serve together in God’s Kingdom.

1 Corinthians 8:1Now regarding your question about food that has been offered to idols. Yes, we know that “we all have knowledge” about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church.

We can best handle our disagreements by loving each another first and foremost, which may mean putting someone else’s preferences above our own.

Acts 11:2-4, 18When Peter arrived back in Jerusalem, the Jewish believers criticized him. “You entered the home of Gentiles and even ate with them!” they said. Then Peter told them exactly what had happened. . . . When the others heard this, they stopped objecting and began praising God. They said, “We can see that God has also given the Gentiles the privilege of repenting of their sins and receiving eternal life.”

We can best handle our disagreements by resisting the urge to become defensive when we are accused. Instead, we can help by clearly and calmly explaining the facts of the situation.

Acts 15:1-2Paul and Barnabas disagreed with them, arguing vehemently. Finally, the church decided to send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem, accompanied by some local believers, to talk to the apostles and elders about this question.

We can best handle our disagreements by seeking godly counsel.

Philippians 3:15Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you.

We can best handle our disagreements by trusting and asking God to bring us to agreement.

1 Corinthians 3:3You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world?

We can best handle our disagreements by examining ourselves, our own desires, and our behavior to see what is driving us.

Philippians 4:2Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement.

We can best handle our disagreements by committing to settle them rather than letting them fester.

Acts 15:37-39Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. But Paul disagreed strongly, since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus.

2 Timothy 4:11Only Luke is with me. Bring Mark with you when you come, for he will be helpful to me in my ministry.

We can best handle our disagreements by being willing to disagree in love when necessary and not criticizing those with whom we disagree. Paul and Barnabas both continued on their mission to spread the Good News. Paul obviously forgave Mark’s earlier desertion as Paul later specifically asks for Mark’s assistance. We must be willing not only to forgive, but also to let ourselves and others change.

1 Corinthians 6:1, 5-8When one of you has a dispute with another believer, how dare you file a lawsuit and ask a secular court to decide the matter instead of taking it to other believers! . . . I am saying this to shame you. Isn’t there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues? But instead, one believer sues another—right in front of unbelievers! Even to have such lawsuits with one another is a defeat for you. Why not just accept the injustice and leave it at that? Why not let yourselves be cheated? Instead, you yourselves are the ones who do wrong and cheat even your fellow believers.

Believers should handle their disagreements among each other.

Titus 3:9-10Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These kinds of things are useless and a waste of time. If people are causing divisions among you, give a first and second warning. After that, have nothing more to do with them.

We can best handle our disagreements by making sure we are using biblical principles to guide our dealings with one another.

Proverbs 15:1A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

We can best handle our disagreements by using gentle words with one another.