We’ve pounded the nail for the past two weeks, conflict and crises in the church are inevitable. We’re human. We’re sinful. Perfection awaits, but meanwhile we’re stuck here with the temptations that are common to all. What has been awesome to see in this matter is how the leaders of the church handled a crisis that was threatening to disrupt and derail the gospel mission everywhere. Gripped by the Word, compelled by their compassion for the lost, and respectful of each other, these leaders came to a consensus and resolved the matter in a way that glorified God and advanced the church and her mission in the world. As we look at Acts 15:22-35 this Sunday, we’ll see the good that comes on the other side of conflict and controversy, and we’ll see how God redeems the messes we get ourselves into.Series: The Acts of the Apostles (Chapters 11-16)Todd DugardMessage: 41 – It seemed goodHarvest Bible ChapelText: Acts 15:22-35February 25, 2024On the other side of this trial, I’ll be a better man;I will know the sweet deliverance of my Father's mighty hand; I will have another battle won upon which I can stand;I'll grow closer to my Saviour as I trust his master plan;I'll know him better; I will be better; I'll be a better man.Billy and Sarah Gaines (https://youtu.be/3lWdsEB7TP4?si=65iVesrWwYRLWlUX)Romans 8:18Romans 8:28Psalm 27:13John 10:10I’ll enjoy good on the other side of conflict and controversy when……leaders lead (15:22)…communication is clear (15:23-27)In the absence of information, people make it up.Clear communication depends on:1. The authority2. The content3. The recipients4. The tonality5. The method6. The frequency7. The timing…grace and truth abound (15:28-29)John 1:14Imagine the devil's devastation when he succeeds in wounding a church only to find her, though in pain, not in division or disarray, but eyes lifted to heaven and set on grace. A gracious church might get knocked down, but when she gets up, she's walking around in snakeskin boots.Jared C. Wilson…and peace returns (15:30-35)Ephesians 2:14The only perfect church is the heavenly assembly, and this does not meet at 10:30 a.m. each Sunday a short drive from your house. So, until you're called to join the throng around God's throne, you're called to belong to a church in which others will get things wrong—and so will you.Sam Allberry