Include our disagreements in our prayers, not praying for the triumph of our viewpoints, but seeking God s grace to listen attentively, to speak clearly, and to remain open to the vision God holds for us all. They exist within committees, congregations, presbyteries, synods, at General Assemblies, and in the national life of the denomination. Conflicts are inevitable in all of life and certainly in the church. The history of the church is filled with conflicts and disagreements. There have been and are going to be disagreements as Christians attempt to discern God s work in the world and as we interpret Scriptures.
Conflicts can be harmful and even destructive.
They can cause individuals a great deal of pain and the community of faith immeasurable damage. At the same time, conflicts can be an opportunity for new insights, learning, and individual and corporate growth. Disagreements can illuminate a topic in helpful ways and can present solutions to problems that previously had not been seen. The successful resolution of conflict can also bind people together in a powerful way. The Bible contains many stories of conflict and disagreement and much advice about how they can be addressed.