Introduction: Prior to salvation, we were spiritually dead to God and alive to sin. As a result of being “in the flesh,” we carried out the deeds of the flesh. At the point of salvation, however, we were regenerated (“born again”) and our spirit was made alive. We were enabled to live a life of [...]
Introduction: Did you know that God is not in the marriage “remodeling” business? His desire is to transform your marital relationship, not reform it. The world is focused on helping couples improve their marriage as evidenced by the enormous variety of self-help books. Without transformation from the inside out, a Christian couple will never experience [...]
Being married to someone who is emotionally immature can be annoying and frustrating. Some describe it as having another child in the house. If you have a spouse who is not emotionally mature, this article will help you better understand the problem and address it in a constructive way. Before examining the characteristics of an [...]
"Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do [...]
"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. [...]
"Reckless words pierce like a thrusting sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing" (Proverbs 12:18). Big Idea: Talking to others about how they have wronged us can bring reconciliation and restoration when our words are seasoned with wisdom and grace. How Do I Communicate Wisely to My Offender? Plan Your Words Careful planning [...]
“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16) Review: Preparation for Go and Show (Matthew 18:15) requires honest self-examination and repentance of all sin that God reveals to you. Before confronting the offender, we must be willing to admit our wrongs through confession. Confession: ‘Homologeo’ [...]
“Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye and then you will be able to see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matthew 7:5). Review: God has specified in His Word the method for resolving conflict and reconciling with an offender. When we choose to gossip/slander or verbally attack the offender, [...]
Review (Part 1): Big Idea: Scripture specifies the procedure for resolving conflict between two parties. A failure to follow this procedure is sin and results in damaged relationships and the defamation of God's character. Three Ungodly Approaches to resolving conflict: Slander and gossip. Unfortunately, most consider these acceptable/respectable sins. Romans 1:28 ff listed among such [...]
Big Idea: Scripture specifies the procedure for resolving conflict between two parties. A failure to follow this procedure is sin and results in damaged relationships and the defamation of God’s character. Three Ungodly Approaches: Slander/Gossip (purveyor or recipient) about the offender Slander is speaking false and malicious words about another person so that their reputation [...]
