Whilst the Philippian church is clearly doing very well - they are Paul’s ‘joy and crown’ - there is nevertheless some unresolved conflict within their ranks. Conflict is not necessarily a sign of dysfunction. In fact, biblical churches are marked not by an absence of conflict - it is inevitable - but by the presence of a deep desire to reconcile. Conflict exists because whilst the church is full of redeemed, Spirit-filled people, we still exhibit traits of our fallen nature. We always have a choice between living in one of two kingdoms: the kingdom of darkness which brings slander and unforgiveness and division and hate, or Jesus’ kingdom, which is marked by peace. Let us be a church that chooses the latter. And let us be people insistent on resolving conflict healthily, graciously, biblically, and regularly.
By Ed Flint