Sunday School Today: Conflict Is Sometimes A Good Thing

In our discussion about what makes up a person’s religious beliefs, we noted that a person’s doctrines and convictions about areas of Scripture or even the development of other believers within the Body of Christ may bring about a difference of opinion, which can lead to conflict between believers. While we do not generally like when conflict occurs, it sometimes is a good thing when it does occur. God, in His infinite wisdom, works through all of these matters to accomplish His purpose and for His glory. We are advised in Scripture that conflict may separate believers to serve the Lord in different areas to reach others for Christ (Acts 15:36-41). It also may occur for the purpose of correction and reminding us what is most important (Galatians 2:11-21), and to remind us that, within the body of Christ, our faith is demonstrated by our actions (James 2:8-26). Even if it means churches split to separate from the body those who operate with selfish desires, conflict is good because it protects the true followers of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:26-28).