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Forgiveness and Forbearance
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Not Every Conflict is a "Matthew 18 Issue"
While Matthew 18:15–20 provides a foundational guide for conflict resolution among believers, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some conflicts require different approaches—prayer, fasting, mediation, or even temporary separation.
What the Bible Says
The Bible provides profound insights into the art of forgiveness and forbearance. Jesus' teachings, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount, spell out the virtues of turning the other cheek and forgiving not just seven times but seventy times seven.
Forgiveness vs. Forbearance
While forgiveness is a one-way street, requiring only one person to release resentment or claim against another, forbearance involves a mutual agreement to tolerate differences. Sometimes, challenging conversations require one or both. Knowing when to apply each is an acquired skill.
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:13
By understanding the types of conflict and applying biblical principles of forgiveness and forbearance, you can navigate challenging conversations with wisdom and grace.