Peacemakers in Progress: Conflict Resolution Part 1

This part 1 episode of our Peacemakers Series digs into the complicated topic of conflict resolution. Annie Silipo is covering this crucial aspect of our lives as human beings- the pursuit of peace in the midst of conflict. This episode helps us see conflict as a great opportunity to glorify God instead of a hassle to avoid. When we have this biblical perspective the outcome will be peace with God, ourselves and others.

About the Speaker:
Annie was born in Havana Cuba. Her family immigrated to Miami, Florida in the early 60’s. She attended the University of Florida where she obtained her Animal Science degree and more importantly became a disciple of Jesus. Shortly after graduation she moved to Boston to train for the full time ministry. While in Boston she met her husband Joe and they were married in 1986. Her and Joe have three wonderful children- Lynda, Joseph and Sammy. They have had the pleasure of serving in the full time ministry in several different churches including as missionaries in Milan, Italy. They are very grateful to currently be serving in the San Diego Church of Christ.

Episode Notes:
Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called sons of God” What a privilege to be called a son and daughter of God. We should have a goal of becoming peacemakers. Lets get good at it for our sake and for the sake of others.

1 Corinthians 10:31 “In all things for the glory of God” The goal of conflict resolution is to glorify God. Only in this process of glorifying God is where we find joy and peace in relationships.

So how do we glorify God through conflict?

1. Believe that conflict provides opportunity. It provides an opportunity to honor God. 

• What are some causes of conflict?
  • Misunderstanding due to poor communication
  • Differences in expectations,values, opinions, goals and interests
  • Competition over limited resources
  • Sinful attitudes and habits 

2. Live at peace with each other 

• Romans 12:17-19 “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as long as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge my friends but leave room for God’s wrath”.
• The opposite of conflict is peace. The world is desperately seeking peace.  God communicates in the Bible his deepest desire to bless us with peace.
• Ephesians 4:3 “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” 
• Peace binds us. It is God’s desire and his command for us to make every effort to keep this bond.
• Nothing reveals God’s concern for peace and unity more vividly than his decision to send his son. 
• God understands that without this peace and unity  we can never influence the world for him.
• John 17:23 “May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me”
• He also teaches us that we can not love and worship properly if we at odds with each other and have not made every effort to reconcile 1 John 4:19-21……

3. Trust God and do His Will

• Psalm 32:10 “ Many are the woes of the wicked but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the man or woman who trusts in him.” 
• Romans 8:28 “ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him”
• Sometimes we spend more time trying to figure out God’s motives (the why) vs spending time understanding his loving lessons, truths about his character and trusting in his sovereignty.
• We must begin to se