Why Can't We All Just Get Along? (Part 1)

I hope I won't shock, or upset you when I tell you that Christians, yes, even good Christians, do not always get along. How is this possible? How can this be? There's an old saying that says, "Where there is light there will be bugs. Where there are dogs there will be fleas." In regards to us (people), where there are humans, there will be misunderstandings and differences of opinion, even if those humans are Christians, even if they are good Christians (Acts 15:36-40).

The question here is not “If Christians disagree, what should we do?” but “When Christians disagree, what should we do?” As an example of this, we will refer to two sisters in Christ at Philippi who were not getting along: Syntyche and Euodia.

Earlier, Paul emphasized the importance of being united (Philippians 1:27; Philippians 2:2). Some think these general admonitions, or warnings were leading up to this specific case of disunity. Whether this is true or not, the first three verses of chapter four highlight the importance of living in harmony with fellow Christians. Simply put, getting along with one another!

The way Paul handled this situation can help us know what to do when brothers and sisters in Christ are at odds. I truly believe that this is worth taking a closer look. A good place to begin a discussion of this topic is with SINCERE COMMENDATION.

Paul first establishes a positive atmosphere. He assured all the Christians at Philippi, including the two troubled sisters, of his love. What he did was pretty basic. Before he commanded he commended (Philippians 4:1).

No verse in the Bible is filled with more warmth and affection than (Philippians 4:1). Let's break this verse into smaller, more easily understood parts:

a. “Brethren” – they were family

b. “Beloved” – AGAPH … used it twice for emphasis

c. “Longed for” – homesick to see his friends

d. “My joy and crown” – he thought of them as his crowning [STEPHANOS] achievement

This question then can be asked of yourself, "Do you want to help two Christians to be reconciled?" Whatever you do, do not start by pointing out their short comings! First, affirm your care for them, or if I may, before you influence their wills, you must touch their hearts.

Now knowing what we do from the above discussion, we can talk about SENSITIVE CONFRONTATION. The Philippians church was Paul’s crown – the laurel wreath of victory – but there was a “thorn” in the crown: two sisters who had a serious disagreement; Syntyche and Euodia. In direct fashion, Paul said… (see: Philippians 4:2).

“Syntyche” can mean “pleasant” and “Euodia” can mean “sweet fragrance.” At the time, however, they were anything but pleasant; and they were spreading the unpleasant aroma of discord. I think a little background on these two women is necessary here for clarification.

Euodia and Syntyche were two women who are mentioned briefly in the book of Philippians 4:2. They were members of the church in Philippi and, as Paul described them, they were loyal believers who had fought along with him for the cause of the gospel. Anyone that knew them could see that they were good Christians. But somewhere along the way they lost their focus. In his letter to Philippi, Paul pleaded with them to agree with each other.

Here are some things we know about them:

a. Euodia and Syntyche had worked for the cause of the gospel.

b. They had their goal firmly in mind when Paul was with them.

But what might have gone wrong when Paul wasn't around? In his absence, maybe they were still doing the work they were called to do but forgetting to spend quiet time with God. There may have been so much to do that the work seemed too important to put off. Or, they may have skipped one day of prayer with the expectation of making it up the next. I think we can agree that none of these things is difficult to do. Right?

But you see, this is often the way these things start. Good, hard-working Christians forget that the source of life and their source of peace is Jesus and we can do nothing without Him.

In his letter, Paul asked other members of the church at Philippi to help Euodia and Syntyche to resolve their differences and restore harmony in the church. After all, it is the responsibility of the members of the family of Christ to help resolve such situations with peaceful solutions and not take sides or add fuel to the fire.

So what DID Paul do next..? We shall continue our discussion on Christians getting along with other Christians next week in Part 2 of: "Why Can't We All Just Get Along?" I hope that you will join me then. Until next time, have a blessed week!

Scripture reference: Philippians 4:1-3

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, I ask forgiveness for doing things I should not have done. You are a loving and forgiving God, and I will not dwell on feelings of guilt for the things I have done. Amen.

God bless you,

Billie