Discussion

Conflict is an inevitable part of church leadership and ministry life. Healthy churches don’t avoid conflict. They engage it redemptively. In this discussion, you will reflect on a real-world church conflict and consider how leadership choices shaped the outcome. You'll also explore how principles from The Leadership Challenge could have improved the situation, particularly the role of affirming contributions and celebrating shared values.

In at least 300 words, thoughtfully describe a church-related conflict you’ve witnessed or experienced. (If you cannot think of one, you might ask someone to share one with you.) This could involve:

• A disagreement among leaders
• Conflict between different generations or ministry teams
• Disputes about doctrine, money, worship style, or mission priorities

Avoid using names or details that would reveal personal identities.

Your post should include the following:

1. What was the core issue? What was the primary disagreement about? What deeper values, assumptions, or unmet needs might have been involved?
2. How was the conflict handled? Who got involved in trying to resolve it? What actions were taken (e.g., meetings, mediation, resignation, silence)? What communication approaches were used?
3. What went well or poorly? Were there moments of grace, insight, or unity? Were there points where the conflict escalated or became toxic?
4. What are the leadership lessons from the event? What leadership decisions or behaviors improved (or worsened) the situation? Was trust strengthened or weakened through the process?
5. Might recognition of contributions or celebration of shared values have shifted the tone or trajectory of the conflict? Could small celebrations, public gratitude, or shared wins have healed tension or realigned focus?

Again, make sure your initial post is at least 300 words. After making your initial post, please read through the responses of your classmates and make at least three follow-up comments on a different day than your original post. These responses should contribute meaningfully to the discussion, whether by asking insightful questions, providing additional examples or perspectives, or challenging ideas respectfully. Each follow-up comment should be at least 100 words. This discussion is worth 25 points.