Dealing with Difficult People

All church leaders encounter difficult people at certain times in their ministry. With these brief and practical handouts, your leaders will be better equipped to handle those in the congregation prone to complaining and stirring up strife. They'll learn about how conflict evolves and how to deal with it; ultimately, relationships within your congregation can be nurtured to build up effective followers of Jesus Christ. Table of Contents: Managing Complainers Addressing complaints head-on can stop potential damage. Mark Wheeler Learning Through Criticism Criticism, although tough to hear, can bring important insight. Jim Abrahamson Identifying Critical People Spotting people with critical attitudes can lessen the damage they cause. Marshall Shelley Leading Reluctant Followers People sometimes need a reason to follow good leaders. Ben Patterson Loving Your Enemies Responding in love to those who oppose you can bear much fruit. Jay Kesler Shepherding Those Who Don't Like You Being at peace with your enemies requires tact and sensitivity. Gary Preston Taming the Green-Eyed Monster of Envy The key is being content with what God has given us. Charles Cerling, Jr. Varieties of Religious Strife Church conflict that is managed early can protect against divisive conflict later. Speed Leas