A Kingdom Approach to Conflict

Read 2 Timothy 2:22-26

This passage is both beautifully and powerfully written. Paul uses strong language at the beginning of these verses, “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments…,” he warns Timothy.

The middle of the text suggests a different way for him to communicate. Paul uses the words “teach,” “gently instruct,” “kind,” and “not resentful.” Paul explained that one approach likely leads to “quarrels” and the other has a better chance of leading people to “the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth…” 

I think an important distinction to make here is that Paul isn’t telling Timothy to avoid having controversial conversations but rather giving him a guide on how to engage in them. One is brash‚ perhaps someone just wanting to vent, blow off steam, make their opinion known, or even get into an argument just for the sake of getting into an argument. Although there is much value in expressing your deepest feelings in a very real way, perhaps this type of communication is saved for your close confidants as its primary beneficiary is you. 

When desiring to lead people who “oppose” you toward Christ, Paul is advocating for the approach of a teacher. Someone who communicates wholly with the other person’s education in mind. It avoids the “I’m right and you’re wrong” type of thinking and replaces it with, “Here, let me show you why this makes sense” school of thought.  

How will we draw souls closer to the kingdom or guide people toward our point of view? Brash bashing or kind and gentle instruction? Don’t stray from the Word but let’s commit to a thoughtful delivery of it! 

For Reflection: 

These things are easy to agree with on paper but when your buttons are pushed and your blood starts to boil, how do you stay in others-focused-education mode with your actions and words?

Take some time to think about specific topics or people that may tempt you to “lose your cool” and make a plan for how you will manage that interaction and respond in an edifying way. 

by Rachael Sheets