Find the root cause of a dispute (seldom the complaint that is voiced).

• It may stem from someone's (or a number of peoples') desire to control others.
• Deal with it according to the principles of Gal. 6:1.
• For an extremely sensitive case (such as a wayward pastor) bring in elders (spiritually mature) from sister churches to help deal with it.
• Ask those involved in a division to make a solemn, public agreement (in the presence of those involved) to forgive and love.
• Do not deal with emotional issues in business meetings nor ask for a vote. Let people blow off steam first, in a non-formal discussion session with no vote taken. Let them say what they have to say and listen. Thank you for their input.
• Avoid forcing issues publicly.
• Avoid surprise decisions. Prepare the people ahead of time.

To avoid most disputes, teach your people to discern the three levels of authority for what a church does:

• New Testament commands (we must do them) such as to baptize.
• New Testament practices that were not commanded (we may do them; we cannot prohibit them) such as to baptize immediately.
• Human traditions not mentioned in the New Testament (we prohibit any that hinder obedience to the commands; many traditions are good). An example of a tradition is to use baptism as the graduation ceremony following a long course of doctrine.

Find in Galatians 6:1 guidelines for dealing with disputes and division.

Find in Titus 3:10-11 what to do when the above guidelines don't work.

Find in John 17 verses that move us to seek loving unity.

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T&M Student Activity Guide page 29b

When conflict breaks out, chronicle the events, words and actions of people.

• Look for patterns and underlying beliefs, values, and attitudes.
• Record the Scriptures that the Lord leads you to, as well as the wise advice you hear from others.
• If working cross-culturally, find about the role of go-betweens and ask the Lord to provide one.

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