Let the Gospel Define the Fight

Conflict is inevitable. In our families, our friendships, our churches — even in our own hearts — tension rises. Emotions flare. Offenses come. The question isn’t if we’ll face conflict, but how we’ll handle it when it comes. And according to Paul in 1 Corinthians 6, the way we fight reveals who we truly follow.

That’s a sobering thought.

Because too often, we fight like the world. We lash out. We demand payback. We lawyer up and lock down. And in doing so, we broadcast a distorted message to the world — not one of grace, but of grievance.

But Paul is calling us to something better. Something deeper. Something more Christlike.
He reminds us that the church isn’t just a gathering of people who like the same worship music or agree on a set of beliefs. We are saints. We are heirs. We are a people filled with the Spirit of God and entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation.

That means when conflict arises — and it will — we don’t settle it the way the world does. We don’t air our grievances like dirty laundry or pursue vindication at the expense of our witness. Instead, we approach one another with humility, wisdom, and a cross-shaped commitment to restoration.

Think about that. In a world that cancels, sues, and shames, the church is called to something radical: to suffer wrong rather than retaliate, to forgive rather than get even, to reconcile rather than rage.

Why? Because that’s what Jesus did.

He didn’t demand His rights. He didn’t strike back. He entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly — and in doing so, purchased our peace.

So church, if you’re in the middle of conflict today, don’t just ask, “How do I win?” Ask, “How do I reflect Christ?” Let the gospel define how you respond.

Remember who you are: washed, sanctified, justified.

And let’s be the kind of church that doesn’t just talk about grace—but lives it out, especially when it’s hardest.

Because how we fight reveals who we follow.

And we follow the crucified, risen, peacemaking King.

Are there any areas of conflict in your life where the Spirit might be calling you to walk in gospel humility instead of worldly retaliation?