Peacemaking
What is "peacemaking" and why is it part of our church's vision?
Very simply, peacemaking is the biblical response to conflict. As a community of believers reconciled to God by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we are called to respond to conflict in a way that is distinctly different from the way the world does.
Biblical peacemaking principles are so practical that we can use them to resolve most basic conflicts of daily life. But they are so powerful that they have been used to mediate and arbitrate bitter divorce and child custody actions, embezzlement situations, church divisions, multi-million dollar business disputes, malpractice lawsuits, and sexual abuse cases.
Through biblical peacemaking, conflict becomes an opportunity to glorify God, serve other people, and grow to be like Christ. In the absence of peacemaking, we naturally resort to either flight ("peace-faking") or fight ("peace-breaking") responses. We miss opportunities to honor Christ, grow in our character, and strengthen our relationships.
When peacemaking becomes part of a church's culture, God blesses in many ways:
- Ministry increases. We spend less time fighting and more time ministering.
- Divorce decreases. Families are better equipped to handle disputes, and people seek help before a crisis occurs.
- Church splits and divisions become less common. This strengthens our testimony to the community.
- The church grows more. Membership turnover decreases because offended members are less likely to leave.
- Leadership grows. Elders spend more time moving ministry forward and less time dealing with disgruntled members.
- Pastors avoid burnout. They are subjected to less criticism; stress on their families is reduced.
Do you know biblical peacemaking principles? If not, talk to one of our elders if you find yourself in a conflict.
