When Difficulties Arise
Mission Teams and Conflict Resolution

What Needs to Happen When You Happen Not To Get Along

1. Treat each other respectfully so as to build trust. Even if we all cannot agree, we must begin by assuming that everyone on our team has a desire to serve Jesus Christ.
2. Keep conversations and communications open for honest exchange.
3. Do not ask questions or make statements in a way which will intimidate or judge others.
4. Learn about various positions on the topic of disagreement.
5. State what you think you heard the other person say and ask for clarification before responding to their statement(s).
6. Share your concerns directly with individuals or groups with whom you have disagreements in a spirit of love and respect.
7. Focus on ideas and suggestions instead of questioning people’s motives, intelligence, or integrity. Do not name call or label others prior to, during, or following the discussion.
8. Share your personal experience about the subject of disagreement so that others will fully understand your concerns.
9. Indicate exactly where you agree with those of other viewpoints as well as where you disagree.
10. Seek to stay in community with each other though the discussion may be passionate and full of tension.
11. Be ready to forgive and be forgiven.
12. Urge persons of various viewpoints to speak (when it is their turn) and promise to listen to opposing positions seriously.
13. Seek conclusions informed by those points that you can find agreement in.
14. Be sensitive to the feelings and concerns of those who do not agree with the majority and respect their right of conscience.
15. Abide by the decision of the majority, and if you disagree with it and wish to change it, work for that change in ways that are consistent with the guidelines.

Most Importantly…
...include the disagreement in your prayers, not praying for the triumph of your viewpoint, but seeking God’s strength to help us listen attentively, to speak clearly, and to remain open to the vision God holds for us all.

“Give them a hearing...listen before we answer”.
   - John 7:51 & Proverbs 18:13

“Maintain the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace.”
   - Ephesians 4:3

“Speak the truth in love.”
   - Ephesians 4:15

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