see more of Todd's thoughts at:

I think it was the great philosopher Rodney King who asked why can't we all get along?

I've often wondered that myself in the church. Why can't we all get along? Why is there always so much church conflict? And how many new churches have been started over the years because of conflict, rather than the goal of reaching new people for Christ?

Here are some reasons that I think there's so much conflict in the church today:

1. Ego. Too many people in the church have big egos. Many times, we are so determined to do things our way, we exclude everyone else's input. When we do get our way, we tend to hurt other people. When we don't get our own way, we're known to take our ball and go home.

2. Poor leadership. Many a conflict has been caused by really poor leadership. When we don't communicate well and make decisions that are not understood, people will get ticked. And those are the folks who tend to find people who will agree with them and back them up.

3. Difficult people. We all know them. They are the ones who came to your church within the past three years from another local church. They are perpetually difficult people, and you were probably foolish to think they wouldn't cause problems in your church. They will.

4. Spiritual warfare. Lastly, this last one can be a combination of the first there. Satan would love nothing more than to use egos, poor leadership, and difficult people to derail your church. And way too many times, he is successful.

So, how do you help decrease conflict in your church? Check your ego at the door. It's hard but it can be done. Communicate your vision clearly and succinctly before implementing change. And finally, deal with difficult people early and often.

And, of course, pray hard. Really, really hard!

In the end, maybe some of these will help us all "just get along."

What do you think?

Have a great week in ministry! You can email me at trhoades@mondaymorninginsight.com.

Todd

Todd Rhoades is the editor/head writer for MondayMorningInsight.com. He's also the founder of ChurchStaffing.com, a contributor to Rev! Magazine, and currently works with Leadership Network to help identify, connect, and help high-capacity Christian leaders to multiply their impact. Todd lives in Bryan, Ohio, with his wife and four children.