Resolving conflict - is this the way?
Ok, let us suppose that you and I have a disagreement concerning a serious point of doctrine. it may not be serious to some, but you fervently believe one thing and I am totally convinced of the opposite.
How can freedom of expression be balanced by respecting another persons space, within a Christian community? Having thought for some time about this, I want to present a suggestion for 'peer review' as it were.
To be honest, I have had a major disagreement with someone and i don't feel that I handled it at all well. I won't say who, but if they want to step up and identify themselves, this is their choice. If they wish to remain anon, I shall respect that also. However, I do want to move towards better outcomes in future where this situation happens, and also to offer my apologies to those concerned.
First of all, there can be major differences in interpretation and practice when it comes to the Christian faith. I have met Christians who consider that being Christian is synonymous with being teetotal, and also Christians who take a very different view.
I think the first point to consider is Romans 14 - the whole chapter. Basically, Paul is saying that where different individuals or groups form different ideas, then neither one should look down on the other for being different. If it is done as a conscious decision to serve the Lord, then it is between God and that individual or group, and no one else.
Another Christian principle that seems to have a bearing is discussed in Philippians.
" There must be no rivalry or vanity among you, but you must reckon others better than yourselves. Look to each others interests, not merely your own." Philippians 2:3&4. The NEB.
To me, this suggests that if we disagree with what someone is saying, we need to seek clarification as to what they really mean, and try to see if we can get behind any of what they are saying. We need to seek common ground if there is any, rather than insist that they are totally wrong or that we are totally right.
Lastly, I think we need to go with what Peter says "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who demands a reason of you for the hope you have. But do this gentleness and respect..." 1 Peter 3:15. the NIV. and yes, I think it a given that if you are going to ask a fellow Christian anything, you need to ask them with the same degree of gentleness and respect as well.
I also want to admit that I have not done any of this myself, lately. you all know who you are, and I apologise to each of you for failing to live by these Christian principles in my dealings with you.
Rest assured that I am henceforth resolved to carry these things out myself, and hope that you will forgive me as a fellow Christian. if anyone else wants to add anything , I would also value your input on this.
How can freedom of expression be balanced by respecting another persons space, within a Christian community? Having thought for some time about this, I want to present a suggestion for 'peer review' as it were.
To be honest, I have had a major disagreement with someone and i don't feel that I handled it at all well. I won't say who, but if they want to step up and identify themselves, this is their choice. If they wish to remain anon, I shall respect that also. However, I do want to move towards better outcomes in future where this situation happens, and also to offer my apologies to those concerned.
First of all, there can be major differences in interpretation and practice when it comes to the Christian faith. I have met Christians who consider that being Christian is synonymous with being teetotal, and also Christians who take a very different view.
I think the first point to consider is Romans 14 - the whole chapter. Basically, Paul is saying that where different individuals or groups form different ideas, then neither one should look down on the other for being different. If it is done as a conscious decision to serve the Lord, then it is between God and that individual or group, and no one else.
Another Christian principle that seems to have a bearing is discussed in Philippians.
" There must be no rivalry or vanity among you, but you must reckon others better than yourselves. Look to each others interests, not merely your own." Philippians 2:3&4. The NEB.
To me, this suggests that if we disagree with what someone is saying, we need to seek clarification as to what they really mean, and try to see if we can get behind any of what they are saying. We need to seek common ground if there is any, rather than insist that they are totally wrong or that we are totally right.
Lastly, I think we need to go with what Peter says "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who demands a reason of you for the hope you have. But do this gentleness and respect..." 1 Peter 3:15. the NIV. and yes, I think it a given that if you are going to ask a fellow Christian anything, you need to ask them with the same degree of gentleness and respect as well.
I also want to admit that I have not done any of this myself, lately. you all know who you are, and I apologise to each of you for failing to live by these Christian principles in my dealings with you.
Rest assured that I am henceforth resolved to carry these things out myself, and hope that you will forgive me as a fellow Christian. if anyone else wants to add anything , I would also value your input on this.