How should Christians handle conflict when they believe something serious is at stake?

In Joshua 22, the tribes of Israel nearly go to war over an altar built beside the Jordan River. The western tribes believe their brothers have rebelled against God, while the eastern tribes intended the altar to serve as a witness that they also belonged to the Lord.

In “Trouble at the River,” Chris Jessee explains that Israel’s concern about sin was serious and appropriate. Scripture calls God’s people to care deeply about truth, holiness, and faithfulness. The crisis arose because they acted on an assumption before they understood the whole story.

This sermon calls us to cling to the Lord, cross the distance, tell the truth, and choose peace. These practices shape the way we respond to conflict at home, at work, within friendships, and in the church. Instead of withdrawing or relying on messages from a distance, we can move toward one another with humility and a desire to understand.

Joshua 22 also points us to Jesus Christ, the faithful witness who crossed the distance between God and sinners. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus reconciles us to God and gives His people the ministry of reconciliation. Our security in the gospel frees us to listen carefully, admit our fears, speak honestly, and forgive generously.

This Sunday message from Metro Life Church in Casselberry is part of the People of God’s Promise sermon series. It reminds us that the presence of God holds His people together as they pursue truth and peace under the lordship of Jesus.

Key Takeaways

1. Cling to the Lord: Conflict reveals what we trust for security. Before confronting someone else, ask the Holy Spirit to expose the fears, desires, and demands shaping your response.
   1. Take Sin Seriously: God’s grace never makes sin unimportant. The cross reveals both the seriousness of our rebellion and the depth of God’s mercy toward sinners.
2. Cross the Distance: Healthy reconciliation usually requires direct, personal conversation. Move toward the other person with a willingness to listen, understand, and seek what honors Christ.
   1. Tell the Whole Truth: Speak about the facts and the concerns beneath them. Because Christ has secured your standing before God, you can respond without panic, defensiveness, or the need to control the outcome.
3. Choose Peace: Biblical forgiveness refuses to keep using an offense against another person. Jesus reconciled us to God through the cross, and His grace empowers us to pursue peace with one another.

Additional Resources from Ken Sande / RW360.org

SOG Plan.

Self-aware: What am I actually feeling, and why? What do I want from this conversation that isn't about the gospel?

Other-aware: What might they be feeling? What don't I know about their situation?

God-aware: What would please Jesus in this conversation? Am I trusting Him or trying to win?

Learn More: https://rw360.org/2013/04/28/the-sog-plan/

4 Promises of Biblical Forgiveness

By God's grace:

I will not dwell on this incident.

I will not bring this incident up and use it against you.

I will not talk to others about this incident.

I will not let this incident stand between us or hinder our relationship.

Learn More: https://rw360.org/biblical-forgiveness/