Submission: Conflict Management Plan

Conflict is not just inevitable in church life. It is often an opportunity for growth, clarity, and deeper unity. In this assignment, you will write a 600–800 word strategy plan for resolving a significant conflict in a church or ministry setting. You may draw from a real situation (anonymized), or you may create a hypothetical case based on common church dynamics.

This is your chance to think like a spiritual leader and practical problem-solver—someone who doesn’t just manage tension but leads others through it redemptively and wisely.

Choose a conflict scenario such as:

• A disagreement between pastoral staff and lay leadership
• Tensions between traditional and contemporary worshippers
• Friction between youth and adult ministries over space or priorities
• A doctrinal divide (e.g., over women in leadership, baptism, or sexuality)

Then develop a strategic response that includes the following:

Define the Conflict Clearly (100–150 words)

• What is the specific issue?
• Who are the key parties involved?
• Why does it matter to the health of the church?

This should not be vague. Frame the conflict in concrete terms, even if it's hypothetical.

Understanding the People Behind the Problem (100–150 words)

• How would you listen well?
• What tools or approaches would help you understand the emotions, fears, or values beneath the surface?
• Would you hold listening sessions? One-on-one meetings? Anonymous surveys?

Emphasize empathy, presence, and leadership as relational acts.

Biblical and Theological Framework (100–150 words)

• What scriptural principles would guide your approach?
• How would you apply texts like Matthew 18:15–17, Romans 12:18, or the example of conflict resolution in Acts 6?
• Consider also the character of Jesus and Paul’s appeals to unity.

Keep this grounded but not preachy—show how Scripture becomes a leadership tool.

Strategic Action Plan (150–200 words)

• Describe your concrete steps to address the conflict.
• How would you gather people?
• Would you use a neutral mediator?
• How would you communicate progress?

This is your tactical playbook. Make it pastoral and practical.

Preventing Future Conflict (100–150 words)

• What practices would you put in place to reduce similar tensions in the future?
• Would you offer communication workshops, covenant agreements, revised ministry structures, or team-building retreats?

Show that you don’t just want to fix this moment. You want to strengthen the church’s future.