2 Cor 1:12-24
One of the hardest things for a church
to go through is serious conflict
or unresolved issues.

Often both sides think that God
is on their side
and that they are fighting for God

What are two major issues
1. A GODLESS PASTOR
In life we have some key positions of power
Bosses, politicians, public figures, husband or wives, parents
any positions that give people the idea that they can control others.

Our relationship with God,
for a believer is central
to who they are.

If a Pastor sees themselves as your mediator
and God’s spokesman it can end in trouble.

My sermons impact
is not because I am the preacher
but should be from the scriptures
that I seek to reveal

Sadly some preachers think
that their sermons are equal to the Bible.
They are full of their opinions and very little scripture

When Talking about Pastors Paul says
Titus 1:7-9

The best word for a pastor is God’s servant.

Matthew 20:25 “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles
lord it over them,
and their great ones exercise authority over them.
It shall not be so among you.
But whoever would be great among you
must be your servant”

Sadly Sex, money and abuse of power
are key reasons for removing pastors.

Pastors can bully Staff, helpers, volunteers, the congregation.

2 Tim 2:24

The prohibition against being quarrelsome
does not rule out disagreement,
debate, or even vigorous theological exchanges.

But it does rule out language or behaviour that is belittling, abusive, harsh, or derogatory.

In contrast, the qualified Christian leader is “kind to everyone.”

• Not domineering, but setting an example.
• Not a bully, but gentle
• Not lording it over, but being a servant.
• Not quarrelsome, but kind


The second area is Church members who are power players,
The issues may be rejecting the Scriptures, living in sin, wanting their way,
power games, gossiping, causing disruption.

The problem
Paul said he was coming to them (1 Cor 16:5) but did not,

The Corinthian Christians had become cynical.
They believed that everyone had bad motives
and was out for personal gain and power.

They didn’t trust Paul because they were cynical.

I have a friend who was badly burnt by 2 Churches.
It is now hard for him to not view
every minister to be our for money.

Manipulating for power and money.

Sadly, they may pad out their comments by
saying I would like to share a prayer point which is really gossip.

Or paint a pious picture with holy language
but hiding a knife that they hold to your throat

Lets turn to 2 Cor and see how Paul dealing with a head strong Church.

16-17
Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to know he had no “hidden meanings” in his letters. His meaning was right out on top for all to see.

i. A cynical heart always thinks, “You say this,
but you really mean that.
You aren’t telling the truth.”

Paul assured the Corinthian Christians
that he really told the truth
and he didn’t communicate
with manipulative hidden meanings

Yes he wanted to visit them
but he could not.
This is not grounds to attack him

1. Churches will hit conflicts
Charges against Paul
Accusations will often go too far
They have turned the fact that he could not visit to attack him.
They were looking for an excuse to attack.

1:12
15
13
14
18-24

How had Paul acted
v. 12
v.15
v.14

Paul’s only intention was for them to grow is Christ,
it was not about power trips
or manipulation
but a desire for humble brokenness
as they sought to put God first
in all that they did.
21-22

Is is not men but God that builds us up.

Paul never came as a power broker
but one who was broken
and humbled
before the throne of God
Who desire was to not to have Paul clones everywhere
but people solely devoted to Christ.

24

Sadly we will have bullies in the Pulpit
we will have congregation members lording it over others
but we are called to be holy servants

If a pastor is an issue
1 Tim 5:19-20

If a congregation member is astray
Mat 18:15


If he does not respond
Mat 18:16-17

If a Christian friend is falling
Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression,
you who are spiritual should restore him
in a spirit of gentleness.
Keep watch on yourself,
lest you too be tempted.

HOW SHOULD WE SPEAK
Eph 4:15

Heb 10:24 l


IF A BROTHER REJECTS THE CLEAR WORD OF GOD
2 Thes 3:14-15

1 Cor 5:11



CAUSES CONFLICT
Tit 3:10-11


HOW SHOULD A PASTOR TEACH
2 Tim 4:2

Jam 5:19-20

2 Tim 2:24-25

IF IN CONFLICT HOW SHOULD WE ACT
Ephesians 4:31-32

James 1:20 l

HOW DO SOLVE WRONGS
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins,
he is faithfu

IF WE ARE THE CAUSE
Matthew 5:23-24


Sadly issues and people conflict will come
We need to examine ourselves first
repent
ask for God’s will and seek to serve him
and love others