Eight Sins of Discord
For almost three decades, Alexander Strauch has consistently produced books that are biblically faithful and carefully written. In step with that pattern is his newest, If You Bite & Devour One Another: Biblical Principles for Handling Conflict. My first appreciation for Strauch’s newest work is the emphasis upon examining our hearts concerning the attitudes that so often produce conflict among believers. The publisher claims this is “the only book of its kind, examining all the biblical passages on conflict and outlining key scriptural principles for handling various kinds of conflicts among Christian–whether personal disputes, issues of Christian liberty in lifestyles, congregational matters, or disagreements about important doctrines.” I will say more about this resource in the days and weeks ahead as the Lord uses it to counsel my own heart and to equip me to better equip you to counsel one another.
The first chapter, Act in the Spirit, includes the following chart comparing the works of the flesh found listed in Galatians 5 to those sins mentioned by Paul in 2 Corinthians 12, which warranted severe chastisement from the apostle. When these attitudes and actions are present in our lives then it is evidence we are walking according to the flesh, rather than being Spirit-controlled.
WORKS OF THE FLESH
Enmity Quarreling
Strife Jealousy
Jealousy Anger
Fits of Anger Hostility
Rivalries Slander
Dissensions Gossip
Divisions Conceit
Envy Disorder
(Gal 5:19-21) (2 Cor 12:20)
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love” (1 Jn 4:7-8).
Related Sermon: Walk by the Spirit, Not the Desires of the Flesh
Related Post: Resolve Conflict ASAP
[Originally posted July 3, 2012]
