Being a Christian leader Essay Example

battle" (Miller 2005). Conflict is a fundamental characteristic of human societal systems, impacting all aspects of human life. According to Nicholson (1992, p. 11), a struggle occurs when two individuals have conflicting actions. They may have the same goal or different goals that are mutually incompatible. A conflict is resolved when a mutually compatible set of actions is established. The definition of conflict can also be applied to groups, such as states or provinces, and can involve more than two parties.

The rules remain the same. As described by Reychler and Paffenhold (2001, p. 5), struggle can be defined as the pursuit of incompatible goals by different groups. Being an inherent characteristic, there is always a chance for a Christian leader to find themselves involved in a situation of struggle.

According to Miall (2005) et al., Morton Deutsch suggests that conflict can have both destructive and constructive effects. It is important to avoid the former and see the latter as an essential component of human creativity. Conflict can bring dynamism to any organization or church, as it has the power to both destroy and strengthen. Therefore, it is crucial for Christian leaders to possess the necessary skills to resolve emerging conflict situations. It can be acknowledged that conflict is present in the lives of Christian leaders and churches, but it is not always destructive in nature. The effects can be positive if the leader has the knowledge to effectively deal with these situations.

Nature of Conflict

Gene Cagas discusses three different ways in which conflict is perceived in an online article. The first view is the traditional belief that all conflicts are harmful. Christians

who hold this view believe that the world was created perfect but conflict is a result of the "Fall" or wickedness. The second view accepts that conflict is inevitable, as an organization is made up of several smaller groups with individual interests and motivations.

In a church, there are individuals with different gifts and focal points, forming ministries. Each ministry strives to emphasize its importance, causing clashes between ministries. The third focus is on the need for struggle to bring dynamism to the organizational structure. Understanding the nature of conflict helps me find less harmful ways to handle it and ensure productivity rather than destruction.

Causes of Conflict

The main cause of conflict lies in the complexity of struggle.

According to Beer and Packard, conflict arises from the need to protect oneself or something else, whether it be a person, idea, or project. Additionally, individuals feel anger when they are deprived of a specific opportunity or have concerns about the negative consequences of a decision. Conflicts also occur when people's self-interests are challenged in terms of gaining or giving up something. In a church setting, differences can arise simply because individuals have different thoughts. Furthermore, conflicts become more intense when discussions revolve around religion, denomination, and ministries. It is essential for leaders to identify the underlying cause of conflicts in order to develop effective strategies for addressing them.

John Wallace explores different factors that contribute to conflict within the church, including pressures, roles, goals, failures, ignorance, and confusion.

Declaration of Conflict

In order to effectively manage conflict within the church, it is crucial to recognize its presence. Although leaders may not be able to completely avoid conflicts, they have the ability to

exert control over them. It is vital for leaders to take proactive measures in addressing and resolving conflicts. As noted by Ramsbotham et al., (p.

31) Conflict declaration involves acknowledging and altering the underlying causes of a conflict. It is important to bring the issues causing the conflict to the forefront. The crucial aspect in resolving conflicts is communication, regardless of the chosen method. When communication breaks down, the conflict worsens and can lead to dire situations.

A leader requires several essential qualities in order to successfully handle a conflict, including humility, patience, love, truth-seeking, and impartiality. Only a leader who possesses these qualities can gain trust in a conflict situation and effectively resolve it to achieve the best outcome.

How to approach conflict as a Christian

For Christians facing or managing conflict, the Scriptures offer valuable guidance. Jesus serves as the perfect example to follow during times of conflict. When conflict arises, our emotions tend to dictate our behavior and reactions. Consequently, we may become angry and seek revenge. There is also a fear of getting hurt or losing something.

In situations like these, it is not appropriate to let our emotions guide us; instead, focusing on the teachings of the Bible will lead us to act more rationally. I have experienced many times when my emotions got the best of me, but following God's word has helped me avoid wrongdoing and causing harm to others. Additionally, God provides us with ways to handle conflicts that are different from contemporary methods. In church, the struggle often involves temptation to triumph and express our disagreements in a respectful manner.

Our actions involve dishonesty and illegal thoughts as we seek support

from corrupt political ideologies for personal gain. These behaviors contradict the moral principles outlined in the Bible. We have abandoned the belief of responding to challenges with forgiveness; our selfishness has deviated us from biblical teachings. Our lack of humility is evident, and we fail to demonstrate the selfless sacrifice exemplified by Christ. Understanding that staying devoted to Jesus and His teachings is vital, we can peacefully resolve conflicts through acts of sacrifice and servant leadership.

Personal Contemplation

In my personal life, I have faced different challenges that include internal struggles and conflicts with family, friends, and beings from other realms. It is important to acknowledge that handling these conflicts has not been a skill of mine. In the past, I would disregard them and continue forward. Nevertheless, delving into these difficulties through studying and reflecting on myself has greatly impacted my entire existence.

The class taught me a new perspective on dealing with the topic of struggle. I now understand that there are more opportunities and potential outcomes that can arise from a struggle, if a leader possesses the understanding and experience. I am confident that the class has equipped me with the necessary qualities to handle any challenging situation and make decisions that will prolong any deteriorating relationship.

Decision

After completing the class, I have learned to distinguish between religion and its practical application. It is unfounded from a theological standpoint for people to believe that struggle goes against Scripture.

The leader must comprehend that struggle is an ongoing process since there cannot exist a social structure without some sort of struggle. This notion corresponds with Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NIV) which asserts, "Indeed, there is no one on Earth who

is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins." Henceforth, if any conflict emerges within my church, I shall not be surprised anymore. Instead of evading or dismissing the conflict, I will be ready to tackle the situation and maximize its potential.

As a church leader, my primary focus will be on two essential aspects of conflict. Firstly, I recognize that conflict is a regular and normal part of our community. Secondly, my goal is to lead in a way that acknowledges and addresses conflict promptly, ultimately strengthening our relationship with God and promoting peace and joy.

References

1. Beer, E. J., Packard, C. C. (2012). The Mediator's Handbook. New Society Publishers.
2. Cagas, G. A Christian Position On Conflict Management. [Online].

Available at: ; lt ; hypertext transfer protocol: //gcagas. page. tl/A-CHRISTIAN-PERSPECTIVE-ON-CONFLICT-MANAGEMENT. htm ; [ Accessed on 6th May 2015 ].

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