What if the other person is not a Christian?
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 6, Restore with Gentleness, Question 30, p. 93
As Christians, our interactions with non-Christians are opportunities to reflect the love and character of Christ.
1 Peter 2:12: "Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation."
This passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining honorable conduct among non-believers. It suggests that our actions should be so exemplary that even those who criticize us will ultimately recognize and glorify God because of our good deeds. By living with integrity, kindness, and humility, we become living testimonies to the transformative power of the Gospel. Our honorable behavior can disarm hostility and pave the way for meaningful conversations about faith.
Galatians 6:10: "So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."
Paul's exhortation in Galatians encourages us to seize every chance to do good to all people. While there is a special emphasis on caring for fellow believers, the instruction to "do good to everyone" underscores our responsibility to extend kindness and generosity to non-Christians as well. (See: The Transformative Power of Kindness) Acts of service, compassion, and generosity toward non-believers can break down barriers and demonstrate the unconditional love that Christ offers to all.
Romans 12:14-21: "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them...If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all...Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
In this passage, Paul provides a comprehensive guide for dealing with difficult interactions. He calls us to bless rather than curse those who oppose us, to strive for peace, and to respond to evil with good. This radical approach challenges us to rise above retaliation and to embody the grace and mercy of Christ. By responding to hostility with love and seeking peaceful resolutions, we reflect the heart of Jesus and create opportunities for reconciliation and witness. See: If Possible, Live Peaceably with All.
In summary, these passages collectively call us to live honorably, to do good to all, and to respond to hostility with grace. By following these biblical principles, we can build bridges of understanding and share the love of Christ effectively with non-Christians.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
Bible study format through Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation OR Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
Downloadable and reproducible version of Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation
Seminar format for either Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation or Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
Webinar format for Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation or Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
FREE Recorded webinar format for Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation
FREE Online course: Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation Self Study
Comments