Sermon Central
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Handling Offences And Conflicts In Ministry
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Jun 9, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Jesus acknowledged that offences would come, but He also gave us practical steps for dealing with them. Ministry is about relationships—between us and God, and between us and others. If these relationships are not properly maintained, the work of God can be hindered.
HANDLING OFFENCES AND CONFLICTS IN MINISTRY
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 18:15-17
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 19:11, Colossians 3:13, Romans 12:18, James 1:19-20
INTRODUCTION:
Offences and conflicts are inevitable in life, and especially within ministry. When people of different backgrounds, temperaments, and responsibilities come together to serve the Lord, misunderstandings may arise. However, how we handle these offences determines whether we maintain unity or allow division to fester.
Jesus acknowledged that offences would come, but He also gave us practical steps for dealing with them. Ministry is about relationships—between us and God, and between us and others. If these relationships are not properly maintained, the work of God can be hindered.
Today’s message is a call to spiritual maturity, humility, and wisdom in managing interpersonal conflicts. It urges us to approach offences not with vengeance or silence but with love, understanding, and the desire for reconciliation.
1. RECOGNISE THAT OFFENCES WILL COME
a) Offences are part of human relationships (Luke 17:1):
Jesus taught that it is impossible to go through life or ministry without being offended. It is part of living among imperfect people.
b) Ministry is not exempt from conflict (Acts 15:36-40):
Even great men like Paul and Barnabas had sharp disagreements, showing that even anointed people can clash.
c) Recognise that offence can lead to division if not handled (Matthew 12:25):
A divided house cannot stand. Offences, if unresolved, can split ministries, churches, and even families.
d) Offence can hinder spiritual growth and effectiveness (Mark 6:3-5):
In Jesus’ hometown, offence blocked their faith and limited miracles.
Biblical Example: Jesus was rejected by His own people, yet He continued His mission with focus and grace (Luke 4:24-30).
2. REACT TO OFFENCES WITH WISDOM AND LOVE
a) Slow down your response (James 1:19):
Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Many conflicts worsen due to haste in reaction.
b) Let love lead (Proverbs 10:12):
Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins. Choose love over retaliation.
c) Choose to overlook minor issues (Proverbs 19:11):
It is to one’s glory to overlook an offence. Not every offence needs to be addressed publicly.
d) Maintain a calm and peaceful spirit (Romans 12:18):
As much as it lies within you, live peaceably with all men. Peace is worth pursuing.
Biblical Example: David spared Saul despite Saul’s repeated attempts to kill him (1 Samuel 24:1-22).
3. FOLLOW BIBLICAL STEPS TO RESOLVE CONFLICTS
a) Speak privately to the offender (Matthew 18:15):
Go directly to the person. Avoid gossip and slander; address issues one-on-one.
b) Involve witnesses if necessary (Matthew 18:16):
If private discussion fails, bring in mature believers to mediate.
c) Bring the matter before spiritual authority (Matthew 18:17):
Only escalate conflicts to church leadership after other steps fail.
d) Maintain a forgiving heart regardless of outcome (Colossians 3:13):
Whether reconciliation is achieved or not, choose forgiveness as a lifestyle.
Biblical Example: The early church resolved disputes between the Grecian and Hebrew widows through wise delegation (Acts 6:1-7).
4. GUARD AGAINST BITTERNESS AND OFFENCE TRAPS
a) Offences can become strongholds if not released (Hebrews 12:15):
Bitterness defiles, not just the offended, but also those around them.
b) Satan uses offence as a bait (2 Corinthians 2:10-11):
When we refuse to forgive, we give the enemy room to operate.
c) Renew your mind with the Word of God (Romans 12:2):
Stay rooted in Scripture to avoid emotional reactions.
d) Pray for those who hurt you (Matthew 5:44):
Prayer softens your heart and invites God into the healing process.
Biblical Example: Stephen prayed for his murderers while being stoned—demonstrating total freedom from bitterness (Acts 7:60).
5. PROMOTE UNITY IN THE BODY OF CHRIST
a) Unity is the desire of Christ (John 17:21):
Jesus prayed that we may be one, just as He and the Father are one.
b) Peace enhances the anointing (Psalm 133:1-3):
Where there is unity, God commands His blessing.
c) Speak the same language of love and truth (Ephesians 4:15):
Speaking truth in love builds up the body.
d) Serve with the same mind and purpose (Philippians 2:2):
Ministry flourishes when we are like-minded in humility and love.
Biblical Example: The early church, though diverse, walked in one accord, resulting in explosive growth (Acts 2:42-47).
CONCLUSION:
Offences and conflicts are not signs of failure in ministry but tests of our maturity and spiritual depth. God is watching how we respond—whether we choose healing or harbour hurt. A ministry rooted in forgiveness and peace will flourish, while one filled with strife will eventually break down.
As ministers and believers, let us resolve to follow Christ’s example of grace, patience, and reconciliation. May we rise above pettiness and emotional outbursts, choosing instead to be vessels of unity and peace in the house of God.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me a forgiving heart in all things.
