“...I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.”
Philippians 4:1-3
Conflict is inevitable in any community, even within the church. How we handle that conflict can either strengthen our bonds in Christ or cause division. True unity goes beyond simply resolving conflict – it calls us to agree in the Lord and set our minds on Christ. In our series, The Lowly, Pastor Ryan Schlachter shares insights on resolving disagreements and fostering unity for the sake of the gospel.
What is the context?
- Throughout his entire letter to the Phillipian church, Paul addresses the issue of divisiveness. In this passage, he directly pleads with two women to reconcile.
- While we don't know the exact details of their disagreement, Paul’s public appeal highlights the importance of their unity for the body of Christ.
In order to reconcile well we have to…
Have the Same Attitude
- We are called to agree in the Lord. Despite our differences, we’re able to land and rest in this common place.
- To set our minds on Christ means to keep Jesus at the center of our thoughts and approaches. Jesus Himself brings us into unity.
- Jesus modeled a reconciliation that is front footed. Here’s what steps we can take to reconcile with one another:some text
- We don’t accuse, instead we get vulnerable.
- We don’t gossip or slander, but we address directly.
- We don’t shut down, we forgive.
Humbly Receive Help
- We should have the humility to ask for help when needed. Ultimately, the end goal is agreement on the topic, but reaching agreement in Christ.
- Paul mentions a “true companion” being someone who can objectively help mediate an offense between two people. This is not only helpful or sometimes necessary, but also biblical.
Remember What Brings Us Together
- All believers have their names written in the Book of Life because of what Jesus has done.
- The reconciliation that shapes our relationships is the one that has already taken place between us and Jesus. We reconcile with others because we’ve been reconciled to Him.
- The good news of the gospel gives us a shared identity that should guide our actions and responses, even in the midst of disagreement.
Additional Resources
- Matthew 18
- 2 Corinthians 5:18
Dinner Party Questions
- How has your upbringing or family background shaped the way you handle disagreements?
- How does this shared identity, being co-laborers in the gospel, shape the way you view others in the church?
- What steps can you take to prioritize reconciliation and unity in your community?
