Conflict is an inevitable part of human existence. Whether it arises in our families, workplaces, communities, or even within our own hearts, disagreements and tensions are part of the world we live in. As Christians, we are called to navigate these conflicts not according to our own understanding, but through the lens of Scripture, which teaches us how to respond in a way that honors God and promotes peace.
The Bible offers profound wisdom and practical guidance on dealing with conflict. It addresses how we should handle disputes, both with others and within ourselves, and provides the tools to approach situations with a spirit of reconciliation, humility, and love. The teachings of Jesus, the wisdom of the Proverbs, and the letters of Paul all provide insight into how we can manage and resolve conflicts in a godly way.
This article will explore 30 Scriptures on conflict, offering both guidance on how to address disagreements and encouragement to pursue peace and unity. Each verse provides practical insights that can help us resolve conflicts in a manner that reflects our faith and glorifies God.
1. Matthew 5:9 (NIV) – Blessed Are the Peacemakers
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
This verse reminds us that peace is a vital characteristic of those who belong to God. Peacemaking is not about avoiding conflict at all costs but about seeking resolution in a way that promotes harmony and reconciles relationships.
2. Matthew 18:15 (NIV) – Addressing Conflict in the Church
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.”
Jesus provides a clear path for resolving conflicts within the church. When there is a conflict, it should first be addressed privately between the individuals involved. If the issue is unresolved, further steps can be taken, but reconciliation should always be the goal.
3. James 1:19-20 (NIV) – Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
In moments of conflict, our natural tendency may be to speak first or become defensive. James instructs us to listen carefully and control our anger. Anger can escalate conflicts, but listening leads to understanding and peaceful resolution.
4. Romans 12:18 (NIV) – Live at Peace with Everyone
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Paul encourages us to pursue peace with everyone, acknowledging that it may not always be possible. However, we are called to do our part in resolving conflicts and maintaining peaceful relationships, as much as it depends on us.
5. Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) – A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
This verse teaches us that our response in times of conflict is crucial. A calm, gentle answer can diffuse tension, while harsh words can escalate the situation. We should always strive to respond in a way that promotes peace.
6. Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV) – Do Not Let the Sun Go Down on Your Anger
“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”
Paul advises that unresolved anger should not be allowed to fester. Holding onto anger can lead to bitterness and sin. It’s important to resolve conflicts quickly and seek reconciliation before the anger takes root.
7. Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV) – Humility in Conflict
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
Conflict often arises from selfishness and pride. Philippians encourages us to approach disputes with humility, putting the interests of others first and seeking unity rather than personal gain.
8. Proverbs 18:19 (NIV) – A Brother Offended
“A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.”
Conflict between close relationships, like family or friends, can be particularly difficult. This verse warns that when relationships are broken, it can be harder to reconcile than to break through strong defenses. It emphasizes the need for careful handling of sensitive situations.
9. 1 Peter 3:9 (NIV) – Do Not Repay Evil with Evil
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
When conflict arises, the temptation may be to retaliate in kind. Peter teaches that instead of responding with evil or insults, we should repay evil with kindness. This approach leads to blessing, both for the one who is wronged and for those who witness it.
10. Proverbs 12:18 (NIV) – The Power of Words
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
Words can either harm or heal. In the midst of conflict, it’s important to use our words wisely, choosing to speak in a way that brings healing and reconciliation rather than further hurt.
11. Colossians 3:13 (NIV) – Bear with Each Other
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Forgiveness is essential in resolving conflicts. We are called to forgive as Christ forgave us—freely, completely, and without holding grudges. This enables healing and the restoration of relationships.
12. Proverbs 19:11 (NIV) – Wisdom in Overlooking Offenses
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”
Sometimes, conflicts arise from small offenses. Wisdom often calls us to overlook these offenses and not escalate them into larger disputes. Patience and grace can go a long way in maintaining peace.
13. Matthew 7:5 (NIV) – Removing the Log from Your Eye
“You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
Jesus teaches us the importance of self-reflection before addressing the faults of others. We are often quick to point out the wrongs of others while ignoring our own. Resolving conflict begins with humility and a willingness to examine our own hearts.
14. Romans 14:19 (NIV) – Pursue Peace and Mutual Edification
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”
When faced with conflict, the goal should be peace and mutual growth. Paul encourages believers to pursue actions that foster unity and build one another up rather than tearing each other down.
15. Luke 6:27-28 (NIV) – Love Your Enemies
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
In moments of conflict, especially with those who oppose or mistreat us, we are called to respond with love, kindness, and prayer. This radical approach to conflict reflects the heart of Christ.
16. Proverbs 15:18 (NIV) – Patience in Conflict
“The hot-tempered stir up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.”
Patience is a key factor in diffusing conflicts. When we remain calm and patient, we prevent anger from escalating the situation. The patient person is able to de-escalate tension and promote peace.
17. Isaiah 1:18 (NIV) – Reason Together with God
“Come now, let us settle the matter, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”
This invitation from God shows that conflict can be resolved through reasoning and reconciliation. God offers forgiveness and restoration, and He calls us to do the same in our relationships.
18. Galatians 5:15 (NIV) – Avoiding Destructive Arguments
“If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”
Paul warns against letting conflict spiral into destructive behavior. When we engage in destructive arguing or fighting, it leads to mutual harm. Instead, we should focus on resolving disputes peacefully.
19. 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV) – The Ministry of Reconciliation
“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”
Christ’s work of reconciliation extends to us, and He calls us to be ministers of reconciliation. As Christians, we are called to actively work toward healing relationships and resolving conflicts.
20. Psalm 34:14 (NIV) – Pursue Peace
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”
David emphasizes the importance of seeking and pursuing peace. Conflict resolution requires intentional action—turning away from harm, doing good, and actively pursuing peace.
21. Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV) – Reconciliation Before Worship
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
Jesus teaches that reconciliation should take precedence even over religious rituals. If we are in conflict with someone, we are called to seek reconciliation before offering worship to God.
22. Romans 12:17 (NIV) – Do Not Repay Evil for Evil
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.”
Paul instructs us to avoid retaliation. Instead, we should respond with good actions, seeking what is right and just in God’s eyes, even when others wrong us.
23. Proverbs 20:3 (NIV) – Avoiding Strife
“It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.”
Wisdom lies in avoiding unnecessary strife and quarrels. A wise person seeks to maintain peace rather than being quick to engage in conflict.
24. Proverbs 17:14 (NIV) – The Beginning of Strife
“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”
Proverbs warns us about the potential consequences of starting conflicts. A small issue, if not addressed early, can escalate into a larger problem. It is wise to resolve disputes before they gain momentum.
25. Romans 12:15 (NIV) – Rejoicing with Others
“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
Empathy and understanding are key to conflict resolution. We are called to share in the emotions of others, building deeper relationships and finding common ground in times of conflict.
26. 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV) – Unity in the Body of Christ
“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”
Unity is essential in the body of Christ. Paul urges believers to avoid division and conflict, emphasizing the need for agreement and mutual understanding in all matters of faith.
27. John 14:27 (NIV) – Peace I Leave with You
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Jesus promises peace that transcends the world’s understanding. His peace is the foundation for resolving conflicts and overcoming fear and anxiety.
28. Hebrews 12:14 (NIV) – Pursuing Peace with All Men
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
Holiness and peace go hand in hand. We are called to pursue peace with all people, striving to maintain harmony and reconciliation.
29. Matthew 18:21-22 (NIV) – Forgiveness in Conflict
“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'”
Forgiveness is key to resolving conflict. Jesus teaches that there should be no limit to our forgiveness. This radical approach helps to break the cycle of conflict and bring healing to relationships.
30. 2 Timothy 2:24-25 (NIV) – The Lord’s Servant Must Not Be Quarrelsome
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.”
Paul advises Timothy to avoid quarrels and respond gently, teaching others the truth with kindness. A calm and respectful approach to conflict is an essential aspect of Christian character.
Conclusion
The Bible provides clear guidance on how to handle conflict. Whether it’s in our personal relationships, our church community, or with those outside the faith, these Scriptures teach us to approach conflict with humility, patience, forgiveness, and love. As we rely on God’s wisdom, we can seek resolution and work toward peace, reflecting Christ’s love and grace to a world in need of reconciliation.
In all situations, the ultimate goal of conflict resolution is to bring glory to God by restoring relationships and fostering unity. As we live out these principles, we become agents of peace and ambassadors of God’s reconciling love.
You Might Be Interested In:
- 25 Christmas LDS Scriptures
- 21 Bible Verses About Family and Christmas
- 20 Bible Verses About Not Celebrating Christmas