Christians in a World of Conflict Class
Sundays, January 11 to February 15 | 9:45 am | Parlor
Dr. Stacy Ikard, Senior Associate Pastor Dr. Karl Slaikeu, Ph.D., is an internationally recognized psychologist, mediator and negotiation expert Join Stacy and Karl for an in-depth look at the Apostle Paul and his struggle with church conflict in the region of Galatia in the early church. In this class, we will strive to understand the text and context of the book of Galatians, but we will also look at Paul's effectiveness as a peacemaker, and what can be learned and applied to our struggles and conflicts. At a time when division and hostility seem so very strong - in both church and society - this study is both timely and provocative!
In week one of "Christians In a World of Conflict," Dr. Stacy Ikard and Dr. Karl Slaikeu establish that conflict is inherent to the faith journey, examining the intense opposition the Apostle Paul faced in Acts and Galatians to defend the true Gospel. Moving from biblical history to practical application, we are introduced to The Preferred Path—a framework that integrates secular negotiation tools with the spiritual wisdom of Matthew 18. By contrasting destructive reactions like avoidance and power plays with the Christian call to collaboration, this session challenges us to pursue conflict resolution that leads not just to winning, but to justice, peace, and reconciliation.
In week 2 of "Christians In a World of Conflict," Kory Tomlinson recaps and reviews week 1 and explores in more detail the apostle Paul's conflicts with the Galatians. Dr. Karl Slaikeu continues the scripture-based discussion of Conflict Resolution, Negotiation and Mediation Practice, introducing the Conflict Grid as an invaluable tool for this work. Join us for an enlightening class and lively discussion.
NOTE There is no week 3; week 3 was canceled due to bad weather. The material is adapted to fit the rest of the series beginning with week 4. In Week 4, we dive into the heart of Galatians 3-4, where Paul argues for salvation by faith rather than the law. We trace the journey from spiritual slavery to adoption as heirs of God, and discuss how this new identity shapes how we handle conflict, disagreements, and communication within the Kingdom.
In Week 5, we examine Paul's 'parting shots' toward the Galatians in order to look at how to replace the works of the flesh with the Fruit of the Spirit during conflict. We also dive into practical tools like the Conflict Grid and a Five-Step Negotiation Model to help you confront wrongdoing and build bridges rather than burning them. Join Stacy and Karl on this enlightening yet practical exploration.
