Transforming conflict

Church Conflict: From Contention to Collaboration Norma Cook Everist. Abingdon Press, 2004. 157 pages.

Norma Everist, professor at Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, has written a warm and inviting book on transforming conflict into something that can benefit instead of destroy us. Having lived it, taught about it, and mentored people through it, she takes readers by the hand and guides them through what can feel overwhelming – like the “valley of the shadow of death.”

Everist believes it is possible “to move through conflict from contention toward collaboration.” Collaboration, furthermore, is both “a strategy to use amid conflict and an environment that can be established and maintained for long-term life and work together.” Although she views collaboration as the healthiest alternative in transforming most conflicts, she finds place for other approaches where they might be useful.

The book is written in non-academic style, though the scholar will also find much to ponder. Part one addresses the nature of conflict: images, conflict types, conflict patterns, conflict roles, and one’s personal history of conflict. It deals with movement within conflict, showing that conflict is never static.

Part two addresses seven styles of conflict transformation, showing the positive and negative ways of using each style, and how each played out in Jesus’ ministry.

The book contains a good biblical theology, and has a good approach to being a leader in the midst of conflict. It gives good counsel on how one might pick their role in any conflict and the approach they might choose to use. The book does not deal with individual emotional styles or differences in family systems types as they impact conflict in the church, however.

Short, concise sections lay out the concepts that need to be communicated. Each chapter also includes actual dialogues, and ends with ideas for personal reflection and collegial conversation.

This book is a worthy addition to any church leader’s library. It deserves to be read more than once, and can serve as a handy reference tool when new challenges are encountered. I highly recommend it.

Marlin Thomas is founder of Resources for Resolving Conflict, Lancaster, Pa. He studied at MB Biblical Seminary.