{"id":5615,"date":"2018-10-29T08:00:12","date_gmt":"2018-10-29T12:00:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trainchurchleaders.com\/practicum\/?p=5615"},"modified":"2024-12-09T12:59:18","modified_gmt":"2024-12-09T17:59:18","slug":"conflict-hinders-great-commission","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trainchurchleaders.com\/practicum\/conflict-hinders-great-commission.htm","title":{"rendered":"Conflict Hinders Fulfillment of the Great Commission"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"ConflictIf we look at the context of Jesus’ mission for us to go and make disciples (Matt. 28:19), we find two other parts that add important aspects to His command. The verse preceding (v. 18) let’s us know discipleship comes under His authority. The verse following (v. 20) reminds us that we do so with His constant presence. If we take time to think about conflict in the church, we can see how it affects all three of these aspects of the Great Commission<\/a>.<\/p>\n

3 Ways Conflict Hinders Us from Fulfilling the Great Commission<\/h2>\n

1) Conflict disconnects us, potentially derailing us.<\/p>\n

Think about Jesus’ words, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matt. 28:18). A disconnect from Him can cause a disconnect from others and pretty soon we derail.<\/p>\n

2) Conflict distracts us, potentially diminishing the eternal good God wants to do through us.<\/p>\n

Think about Jesus’ command to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:18-19a). It’s hard to focus on making disciples when distracted by trying to put out the fires set ablaze from conflict. And, it’s hard for people to see the value of becoming disciples when they see Christians at odds with one another, no different than the world around them.<\/p>\n

3) Conflict dulls our light in reflecting Jesus, potentially destroying our testimony of Him.<\/p>\n

Think about Jesus’ promise, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20). Not only does Jesus’ presence gives us the confidence to get beyond our insecurities that so often drive defensiveness but it also fuels a desire within us for others to experience that same power in Him. But, if all they see is our bickering and fighting, His presence won’t be sensed.<\/p>\n

You’ll find some brief additional thoughts on each of the above 3 points in the Steering the Church Toward Discipleship Leadership Guide<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

For More on These Topics:<\/p>\n