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| Matthew 18 |
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The Matthew 18 Principle for Solving Problems: |
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1. Keep the matter confidential |
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The Bible has much to say about those who gossip or malign others with their words |
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2. Keep the circle small |
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Most problems are solved at the two-person level. |
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3. Be straightforward |
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Jesus tells us to be forthright and to love honesty. |
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4. Be forgiving |
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Once the matter is resolved, we should wholeheartedly forgive and restore the person whose fault has offended us. |
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5. The two should agree to discuss the matter with each other first. |
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An open and honest discussion will most often reach an amiable solution. |
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6. If this does not work, they should agree to share the matter with a pastor. |
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The goal of such a meeting is to understand the problem clearly, solve the problem; reproof and correct, if necessary; and forgive and restore those who have made amends. |
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7. The pastor, if necessary, will explain the situation to the elder board for their appropriate response. |
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If the problem is not resolved, the two parties will present their case to the elders; and the elders will present their solution to the parties.
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Satan would like to destroy harmony and fellowship between Christians. That is not possible if all of us would follow the Matthew 18 principle of solving problems. |