Today’s reading: Acts 11:1-18

As I opened my Bible and began reading Acts 11, I had to smile. You see I just returned from a conference where we spent the better part of two days learning about different approaches and methods of resolving conflict. And in Acts 11:1-18, Peter is certainly faced with a conflict upon his return to the Jewish community in Jerusalem. The Jewish leaders are upset with Peter and his companions for, what they viewed as, an unlawful engaging with Gentiles (Cornelius and his friends). What could have escalated into a full blown dispute, was resolved fairly quickly and amicably because both parties chose to actively listen to the other and engage in discussion. The recorded interaction puts before us a good and healthy example of conflict resolution.

What lesson(s) about resolving conflict did you see or learn from the exchange between Peter and the Jewish leaders? In your experience, how does/can our tone of voice impact an active conflict? Tami

Source: Tami’s Blog