A
K
ALEXKURIAN.ORG
STUDY
Solving Problems Scripturally
Dr. Alexander Kurian
Some Passages & Verses to Consider
Matt.18:15-20; Colo.3:12-17;Tit.3:9-11; I Cori.6:1-8; Gala.6:1; Phili.2:5
Read, meditate, study and identify the principles involved.
Some Guidelines
-
Impartial and unbiased enquiry. Find out the real facts. Honest and open communication is essential in this process. Never hide any facts. Speak the truth in love.
-
God’s glory and the blessing of His people must be our supreme aim. Overall good of the church must be considered..
-
We must be willing to obey God’s commandments as laid out in His Word.
-
Willingness to go the extra mile of sacrifice for the common good and eagerness to do your part.
-
Attitude of mutual trust and respect must prevail.
-
Personal and corporate prayer.
-
Unity among the problem solvers
-
Avoid hasty decisions.
-
The counsel of the mediators must be evaluated and respected with a view to accept it.
-
Believe that our God is a God of possibilities. There is nothing impossible with Him.
-
Full reconciliation and restoration must be the ultimate goal; not superficial patching up and adjustments.
-
Full restoration is possible only through repentance/restitution and willingness to forgive (bring forth fruit appropriate to repentance Matt.3:18).
-
In forgiveness one may not forget immediately, but it does involve a commitment not to raise the issue again.
-
Personal testimony and the integrity of character must be protected at all times.
-
Willingness to be submissive and follow Gods direction as He shows them through the leaders.
-
Remember that the human ways of dealing with sin/problems are: hiding, denial, accusing, excusing and blaming. Avoid these trends at all costs.
-
Always address the problem rather than trying to avoid it or put it under the carpet.
-
Once the problems are resolved, it is desirable to formulate action plans for the future both as defensive (protective) and remedial measures. Developing a Spiritual Growth Plan & Accountability Partner Program can really help.
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace (Rom.15:13).