Disputes...by Doug Thompson

And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? Mark 9:33

It is nearly impossible to live without having a dispute with someone. If you are married, you know what I mean. Disputes usually result from differences concerning small, insignificant matters that are blown out of proportion, and become unrealistic or unproductive points of contention.

In the case above, Jesus perceived that a couple of the disciples were disputing the matter of which one of them would be the greatest. They were embarrassed about the issue of their dispute, and kept silent. Mind you, they were arguing this point in the presence of THE GREATEST who ever lived on the earth. From there Jesus gave a concise explanation of "greatness" that is involved in true discipleship. In a word, servant! He who humbly becomes a lowly servant in last place may possibly be elevated to first place.

Most disputes are about who is right, or who is in control, or who has the right perspective, or who has all the facts. And most disputes are usually settled when one party humbly admits error, or yields control, or gains understanding concerning the issue, or gets all the facts straight, and seeks harmony rather than disputing.

Wouldn't the world be a better place if we could get this principle right? Think about what Jesus said the next time you get into a dispute with someone.