Guidelines for Presbyterians During Times of Disagreement
Developed by the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program
and
Adopted by the 204th General Assembly (1992)
Give them a hearing . . . listen before we answer (John
7:51, Prov. 18:13)
1. Treat each other respectfully so as to build trust,
believing that we all desire to be faithful to Jesus the Christ.
2. Learn about various positions on the topic of disagreement.
3. State what we think we heard and ask for clarification before
responding, in an effort to be sure we understand each other.
Speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15)
4. Share our concerns directly with individuals or groups
with whom we have disagreements, in a spirit of love and respect
in keeping with Jesus' teaching.
5. Focus on ideas and suggestions instead of questioning
people's motives, intelligence, or integrity.
6. Share our personal experiences about the subject of
disagreement, so that others may more fully understand our concerns.
Maintain the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace
(Eph. 4:3)
7. Indicate where we agree with those of other viewpoints,
as well as where we disagree.
8. Seek to stay in community with each other, though the
discussion may be vigorous and full of tension.
10. Include our disagreements in our prayers, not praying
for the triumph of our viewpoints, but seeking God's grace to
listen attentively, to speak clearly, and to remain open to the
vision God holds for us all.
Guidelines for Presbyterians
During Times of Disagreement
Background Statement
As Presbyterians, we are called to work for the "peace,
unity and purity of the Church" (Book of Order) as we seek
to be faithful to God's work in the world. However, disagreements
and conflicts are inevitable in the life of the Presbyterian Church
(USA) as we try to be faithful. They exist within committees,
congregations, presbyteries, synods, at General Assemblies and
in the national life of the denomination.
Conflicts are inevitable in all of life and certainly in the church.
The history of the church is filled with conflicts and disagreements.
Several of Paul's letters address the conflicts which were common
in the early church. There have been and are going to be disagreements
as Christians attempt to discern God's work in the world and as
we interpret scripture.
Conflicts can be harmful and even destructive. They can cause
individuals a great deal of pain and the community of faith immeasurable
damage. Congregations have been divided; denominations have experienced
schisms.
At the same time, conflicts can be an opportunity for new insights,
learning and individual and corporate growth. Disagreements can
illuminate a topic in helpful ways and can present solutions to
problems which previously had not been seen. The successful resolution
of conflict can also bind people together in a powerful way.
The Bible contains many stories of conflict and disagreement and
much advice about how they can be addressed. As those stories
indicate, God is already present wherever there is brokenness,
granting wholeness and peace. God promises to be with us in times
of disagreement and calls us to reconciliation, trust, love and
forgiveness.
We realize that our perspectives are limited, so to help us affirm
each other, enhance our community, stay open to the viewpoints
of others and be sensitive to cultural diversity, we commit ourselves
to the Guidelines in a spirit of prayer, trust and love, seeking
the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Adopted by the 204th General Assembly (1992) of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
For more information about the Guidelines for Presbyterians During Times of Disagreement, or to request materials or training for your presbytery, congregation or theological institution, contact the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program, 100 Witherspoon Street, Room 1623, Louisville, KY 40202-1693.
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