True reconciliation between people is only possible after they have been reconciled to God through Jesus Christ. Believers are urged to settle differences among themselves in brotherly love.
The cause of the breakdown in relationships is sin
Genesis 27:41 Genesis 37:4–5, Genesis 37:18–20; 1 Samuel 15:12–14 Samuel and Saul; 2 Samuel 14:28 Absalom and David; Acts 15:37–40 Paul and Barnabas; Galatians 2:11 Paul opposes Peter
Esau held a grudge against Jacob because of the blessing his father had given him. And Esau said in his heart, “The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then I will kill my brother Jacob.”
Believers should be reconciled to one another
Matthew 5:23–24 See also Matthew 5:9, Matthew 5:25 parallel Luke 12:58; Matthew 5:44, Matthew 18:15–17, Matthew 18:21–35; John 17:20–23; Romans 12:18–21; 2 Thessalonians 3:14–15
So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
The death of Jesus Christ should bring believers together in peace
The church should display reconciliation
Colossians 3:12–15 See also Romans 12:18–21; Ephesians 4:32; 2 Thessalonians 3:14–15
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful.
Examples of reconciliation between people
Genesis 33:4 See also Genesis 45:1–5 Joseph and his brothers; Joshua 22:10–34 Israel, Reuben and Gad; Luke 23:12 Herod and Pilate; John 21:15–17 Jesus Christ and Peter; Acts 9:26–28 Paul and the apostles; 1 Corinthians 7:11 a wife and her husband
Esau, however, ran to him and embraced him, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him. And they both wept.
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.