SERMON SERIES: BECOMING WHOLE DISCIPLES #6
SERMON TITLE: THE CALL TO RECONCILIATION

TEXT:
Romans 12:18
"If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men."

Matthew 18:15-17
"If your brother sins against you go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector."

THE DISCIPLE'S CALL TO RECONCILIATION:
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Matthew 5:9

Known By Our Love for One Another
"Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." John 13:35 NLT

The Reality of Conflict:
"During this time, as the disciples were increasing in numbers by leaps and bounds, hard feelings developed among the Greek-speaking believers-"Hellenists"-toward the Hebrew-speaking believers.." Acts 6:1 The Message

THE STEPS TO RECONCILIATION:

Pre-Step: Let Go Of Minor Offenses!
"A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Proverbs 19:11

1. Take the Initiative
"Go and show him his fault..." Matthew 18:15

2. Approach the Person Directly- Don't Go To Others!
"Just between the two of you..." Matthew 18:15

3. Approach the Person in a Spirit of Humility
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Colossians 3:12

4. Use Direct Communication
"Show him his fault..." Mathew 18:15

If the Offender:

Asking Forgiveness for a Specific Action

Demonstrate a Penitent heart

If Offended:

Confess your part in the Conflict

Share your Perspective of What Happened and How it Affected You

Listen to their Perspective

Extend Forgiveness

6. Seek A Resolution Together
"If he listens to you, you have won your brother over." Matthew 18:15

7. Reaffirm the Relationship
"How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" Psalm 133:1 NLT