SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON - AUGUST 29TH

Relationships: The Improvement Factor

LESSON PASSAGES OUTLINE
1. Approach Courageously (2 Cor. 10:1-3)
2. Challenge with God’s Work (2 Cor. 10:15-18)
3. Declare Any Concerns (2 Cor. 12:14-18)
4. Seek to Strengthen (2 Cor. 12:19-21)

BIBLICAL TRUTH- Christians can seek and develop skills to improve relationships that are lacking.

Bible Commentary - by Terris Ellis, Senior Pastor, Spring Hill Baptist Church, Mobile, Alabama

In many ways, “Sam” had a classic doormat personality. He constantly allowed himself to be taken advantage of by supposed friends. He seemed always to be the one to volunteer to cover the check when a group went out to dinner; but never reminded them when group members promised to repay him, then later forgot. At work he never filed a complaint when coworkers took food he had left in the refrigerator. Even some of his family members treated him poorly. They found fault or belittled him when he gave them birthday or holiday gifts. “Sam” never stood up for himself because he didn’t like conflict.

“Sam” isn’t one person. Actually, he’s a compilation of people I have known (or been) over the years. Do you know someone like “Sam”?

How do you tend to handle conflict? Have you ever helped others work through conflict?

Conflict in relationships is not uncommon. In fact, given that we’re fallen human beings with individual wills, conflict seems inevitable. Handled with Christlike grace, however, conflict actually can lead to improved relationships. Paul had a contentious relationship with the Corinthians and particularly with false teachers who had infiltrated the church. By studying this section of 2 Corinthians, you can...achieve the Life Goal of discovering and implementing the necessary skills to improve relationships that are lacking.