by Bruce Reeves
Synopsis: To graciously act in a way that preserves or produces peace in moments of conflict is to exemplify the very character of God.
In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus vividly portrays the character of kingdom citizens (Matt. 4:23-5:12). He highlights the purpose of the work of His disciples in bringing about peace, both vertically and horizontally, in the preaching of the gospel (Matt. 5:9). What does it mean to be a peacemaker? How can we live in peace with others in a world of such alienation, hostility, and conflict? The Lord not only encourages us to preserve peace, but also to produce peace where conflict has existed. The term was used in classical texts to describe Greek and Roman rulers who established peace in their domain. Christ, however, is not talking about political diplomats, but of those who make peace with God, encourage others to make peace with Him, and who seek to live in peace with all men. To produce peace in moments of conflict is to exemplify the character of God (Matt. 5:43-44). As those who have been transformed by the gospel of Christ, we are to pursue the spiritual fruit of peace as much as lies within our ability (Rom. 12:18; Heb. 12:14; James 3:17-18). Whether we are speaking of our interaction with unbelievers, our marriages and families, or fellowship with brethren in Christ, our commitment to being a peacemaker glorifies God. Let us, therefore, consider the real meaning of peace and how we may truly be peacemakers.
To be a peacemaker in circumstances filled with hostility and enmity, we must respond to conflict in a healthy manner. People tend to respond to conflict in ways that are not only destructive to their own wellbeing, but also make peace impossible.
One way we are tempted to escape conflict is through denial. We may be tempted to pretend that the conflict does not exist, but this brings only temporary relief and frequently makes things much worse. While it may feel that there is less conflict, neither will there be true restoration, healing, and reconciliation. Another approach some may take to conflict is what might be described as flight, i.e. we seek to escape the situation by running away. This may seem to be a legitimate response in some circumstances, but it can lead to the postponement of truly addressing the challenge so that we might actually produce peace (Gen. 16:6-8). Thirdly, for some there is the inclination to respond to conflict not by denial or flight, but by attacking or assaulting others. This seems to be characteristic of those who are more interested in winning a conflict than in preserving what is right. Some people try to overcome an opponent by using various forms of force or intimidation, especially through slanderous verbal attacks (3 John 9-11). It is crucial that we have the biblical view of conflict and recognize that it as an opportunity to glorify God (1 Cor. 10:31), serve brethren (Gal. 5:13-15), and live at peace with others and our own conscience (1 John 3:21-24).
Self-examination can help us guard against hypercritical judgment so that we might remove obstacles to the process of resolving conflict. In Jesus' emphasis on righteous judgment, He condemns hypocritical and hypercritical judgments (Matt. 7:1-5; John 7:24). This context does not preclude any conclusion being drawn about conduct, but it does correct the tendency to be inconsistent in our judgments of others. We are to make many judgments such as what it means to judge hypocritically, the difference between a speck and log, the distinction between that which is holy and unholy, and the nature of the fruits of one's life (Matt. 7:1-5, 20).
The "spiritual" brother is to strive to restore an erring brother with humility and gentleness (Gal. 6:1-2). While we generally have no difficulty spotting another's shortcomings, we sometimes appallingly lack insight into our own. Even specks should be removed, but we must give priority to removing our own logs.
Solomon wrote, "Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips" (Prov. 24:28). He again writes, "A perverse man spreads strife and a slanderer separates intimate friends" (Prov. 16:28). Falsehood is a kind of speech that incites and aggravates conflict. It can involve more than outright lies; it can also include misrepresentation. Peace is not made by distorting reality, but by placing value on the truth. Peace comes through our surrender to the message of the Spirit, whereas division is the result of a fleshly and carnal mind (1 Cor. 3:1-3). I have seen faithful brethren, devoted elders, and sound gospel preachers slandered by those who were intent on living worldly lives and who simply did not want constructive correction.
In a context in which we read of the need for humility, forgiveness, and concern for others, Christ teaches His disciples how they are to address personal sin between one another. We find that loving communication in times of conflict is a process that must be carried out in love, transparency, and openness. This text is dealing with one who feels a brother has sinned against him personally. First, we are to go and show our brother his fault privately and by doing so confidentially (one on one) we shield public exposure in the hope that we will "gain our brother." In Matthew 5:23-24, the offender is told to go to the offended, while here in Matthew 18:15-17, the offended is told to go to the offender—Jesus' point is that it does not matter who is innocent or guilty, either party should be proactive in reconciling the issue and establishing peace among brethren. Personal confrontation is often the last stage rather than the first in conflicts among brethren! When alienated believers lovingly and honestly talk about their differences with the Scriptures as their standard, the God of heaven smiles upon their endeavor. If this does not lead to a reconciliation, we are to take one or two more (Matt.18:16). This will increase impartiality and intensity of efforts to arrive at a biblical resolution. If there is still no repentance, we are to tell it to the church (Matt. 18:17).
We must remain focused on what the real goal is: glorifying God and helping one another to grow closer to the Lord. When we are walking worthy of our calling we will be "diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:1-3). This spirit will lead us to speak wisely, lovingly, and tenderly as we bring honor and adoration to Christ. The apostle Paul well spoke, "If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men" (Rom. 12:18).
Author Bio: Bruce has been working with the Highway 65 church of Christ in Conway, AR for seventeen years. He and his wife, Rachel, have one child, Connor Andrew. The church website is hwy65churchofchrist.org. He can be reached at brochuck1@aol.com.
