In order to handle conflict in a Scriptural manner, elders must learn to control anger, their tongue, and criticism. This message focuses on controlling one’s tongue and criticism.
Lecture Outline Detailed Outline Remember ItBridle the tongue. Be quick to hear and slow to speak. Choose the right words. Eliminate cutting words from your vocabulary. Don’t use inflammatory speech.
Pray; check your attitude and motives; speak gently; balance criticism with words of encouragement; use Scripture to instruct; welcome criticism yourself; seek to strengthen relationships.
- The speaker says to eliminate cutting words and inflammatory speech from your vocabulary and use. What are some words or ways of communicating that you use that might fall under these categories?
- Make a list of verses from Proverbs that talk about choosing the right words. For example, Proverbs 15:1 – “A harsh word stirs up anger.”
- Memorize Ephesians 4:29-30.