Finding ways to resolve conflict is a major issue in our world. Conflicts often arise from excessive urges to satisfy physical needs, to get things we don’t have, or from trying to show we’re better than others. One way to resolve conflict is by having open discussion between warring parties. Dialog brings out causes of a dispute and offers a path toward a resolution. Jesus spoke to conflict resolution in his Sermon on the Mount. He knew that if we fail to deal with flawed relationships, they can lead into hatred or even murder. So we read in Matthew CH 5, “You have heard, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.” Jesus then says before we go to worship, we must reconcile with anyone who has an issue with us. Otherwise our worship is flawed and hypocritical.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More.
