AML 305: Leadership III: Conflict Resolution

Subtitle: Navigating and Resolving Disagreements Biblically

Course Description

Welcome to AML 305, the capstone course in the Advance Management and Leadership certificate. This course addresses an inevitable reality in any family, church, or organization: conflict. While often viewed as negative, conflict, when handled biblically, is a powerful catalyst for sanctification, deeper relationships, and healthier organizations. This course moves beyond mere “conflict management” to a robust, biblically-grounded model of conflict transformation. We will explore the theological roots of conflict, the essential character of the peacemaker, and the practical, Spirit-led skills required to navigate disagreements. Students will learn to see conflict not as a threat to be avoided, but as a divine opportunity for the Gospel to be displayed through repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Course Structure

This course is composed of five chapters, each building upon the last to provide a comprehensive framework for biblical conflict resolution. Each chapter includes a detailed summary, five in-depth lessons, a chapter test, and an optional “Deep Dive” for further study. The course culminates in a final course test.

• Course: Syllabus + Interactive Syllabus + 5 Chapters + Course Test
• Chapter: Summary + 5 Lessons + Chapter Test + Deep Dive

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Articulate a comprehensive biblical theology of conflict, its origins, and its redemptive potential.
• Analyze the root causes of interpersonal and organizational conflict from a biblical perspective.
• Master the step-by-step process of biblical peacemaking as outlined in passages like Matthew 18.
• Develop the personal character and spiritual maturity necessary to act as an effective peacemaker.
• Apply practical skills in listening, communication, mediation, and guiding others toward reconciliation.
• Formulate strategies for building a church or ministry culture that handles disagreements in a healthy, God-honoring manner.

Course Outline

Chapter 1: A Biblical Theology of Conflict

• Lesson 1: The Genesis of Conflict: Understanding Shalom, Sin, and Strife
• Lesson 2: Conflict in the Torah: Case Law, Justice, and Community Restoration
• Lesson 3: Wisdom on Strife: Insights from Proverbs on Words, Anger, and Counsel
• Lesson 4: The Peacemaking Messiah: A Study of Jesus’ Teachings on Conflict
• Lesson 5: Conflict in the Early Church: Case Studies from Acts and the Epistles

Chapter 2: The Heart of a Peacemaker: Spiritual Formation

• Lesson 1: The Log in Your Own Eye: The Primacy of Self-Examination and Repentance
• Lesson 2: The Fruit of the Spirit: Cultivating the Character that Counters Conflict
• Lesson 3: Humility as a Weapon: Overcoming the Pride that Fuels Disputes
• Lesson 4: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discernment, Wisdom, and Self-Control
• Lesson 5: Case Study: The Meekness and Courage of Moses in Leading a Contentious People

Chapter 3: Interpersonal Peacemaking: The Path to Reconciliation

• Lesson 1: The Matthew 18 Mandate: A Step-by-Step Guide to Private Resolution
• Lesson 2: The Art of Redemptive Listening: Understanding Before Seeking to Be Understood
• Lesson 3: Speaking the Truth in Love: Balancing Grace and Truth in Difficult Conversations
• Lesson 4: The Dynamics of Forgiveness: A Biblical and Practical Framework
• Lesson 5: Case Study: Paul’s Masterful Appeal in the Book of Philemon

Chapter 4: Biblical Mediation: Guiding Others to Peace

• Lesson 1: Stepping in Between: The Role and Responsibilities of a Godly Mediator
• Lesson 2: The Process of Mediation: From Initial Meeting to Final Agreement
• Lesson 3: Guiding Parties Through Confession, Forgiveness, and Reconciliation
• Lesson 4: Navigating High-Stakes Conflict: Addressing Power Imbalances and Serious Sin
• Lesson 5: Case Study: The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) as a Model for Mediated Unity

Chapter 5: Building a Culture of Peace in the Church

• Lesson 1: Proactive Leadership: Teaching and Modeling Biblical Conflict Resolution
• Lesson 2: Moving from Conflict Management to Gospel-Centered Reconciliation
• Lesson 3: Establishing Clear and Redemptive Processes for Handling Disputes
• Lesson 4: Training a Peacemaking Team within the Local Church
• Lesson 5: Case Study: Creating a Covenant of Peace for Your Ministry

Assessments & Grading

• Chapter Tests: A test at the end of each of the five chapters will review the material covered.
• Final Course Test: A comprehensive final exam will cover the key ideas from all five chapters.
• Passing Requirement: To successfully complete this course, you must achieve a score of 80% or higher on each of the five Chapter Tests and the Final Course Test.