Dealing With Difficult People In Church - Part II

Article By Rick Warren

Jesus had to deal with a lot of difficult people. Here are FOUR methods He modeled through His life:

1. Realize you can't please everybody (John 5:30). Even God can't do that! One wants rain while the other demands sunshine. Seek God's will in each case.
John 5:30 - I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.


2. Refuse to play their game (Matt. 22:18). Learn to say no to unrealistic expectations. Confront them by "telling the truth in love."
Matthew 22:18 - But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?

3. Never retaliate (Matt. 5:38-39). It only lowers you to their level.
Matthew 5:38 -39 - Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.


4. Pray for them (Matt. 5:44). It will help both of you. Let God handle them.
Matthew 5:44 - But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Rom. 12:18 NIV)

Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, Calif., one of America's largest and best-known churches. In addition, Rick is author of the New York Times bestseller The Purpose-Driven Life and The Purpose-Driven Church, which was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th Century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for ministers. Copyright 2005 Pastors.com, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.