Gathering Storm

Pastors and church leaders struggle with issues of conflict that come suddenly like a storm. If not handled prayerfully and quickly, members disagree, argue, grow angry and ultimately may leave the church, taking anger with them to the next pastor and congregation. Which could be you. It is not "if" but "when" the storm clouds will gather that speaks to the impact and reality of church conflict. The pastor and leadership must be prepared to deal with church conflict immediately. The author believes that it is a great biblical misunderstanding that allows many pastors and congregations to to regard church conflict as something to be avoided like the plagues of Egypt. Instead, church pastors and leadership must see conflict is inevitable and a normal part of congregational life. Seen in this way, biblical healing and spirit led training, can become part of a healthy transformative process, strengthening pastors and congregations. Church leaders must stop running from conflict and stand fast with prayerful teaching and training plus quick engagement with all parties. Peace begins with accepting conflict as an opportunity to move the church congregation closer to God and to each other. Since our churches are comprised of all kinds of people, our approach to conflict interventions must be based on the needs of all of the people in our congregations and also on the fact that as our brothers and sisters, we love them all in the spirit of Christ. Today's pastors and church leaders must remember that effective leadership in turbulent times requires prayer, training and confidence in the grace and peace of Jesus Christ, the only one who has the power to still storms and heal churches.