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CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT: THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES AND CHRISTIAN ETHICS IN FACING AN INTEGRITY CRISIS Ellya Nora Manurung; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.385

Abstract

Church leadership in the modern era faces increasingly complex conflict dynamics, characterized by struggles for position, unethical practices, defamation, and an integrity crisis that undermines congregational trust. Such conflicts not only threaten the unity of the body of Christ but also diminish the quality of leadership as a moral and spiritual role model. This study aims to develop an integrative paradigm for church leadership conflict management by synthesizing classical and contemporary theories (Karl Marx, Georg Simmel, Kurt Lewin, Morton Deutsch, John Paul Lederach, Stephen P. Robbins) with theological values and Christian ethics. The research methodology is qualitative, employing a case study approach, phenomenological analysis, and an interdisciplinary synthesis (theology, psychology, philosophy, and social ethics). Primary data consist of congregational conflict experiences and ministry documents, while secondary data comprise literature on conflict management and leadership theology. Analysis reveals that leadership conflict encompasses structural, psychological, and spiritual dimensions requiring church leaders to serve as mediators, role models, and facilitators of reconciliation. The proposed model, Pastoral Reconciliation, integrates conflict management principles with Christian values of love, justice, and solidarity. This study is expected to make an academic contribution to the field of conflict management studies, contextual ecclesiology, and transformative Christian Religious Education curricula.
CONFLICT AS AN INSTRUMENT OF LOCAL CHURCH LEADERSHIP TRANSFORMATION: A THEOLOGICAL STUDY OF CONFLICT MANAGEMENT BASED ON INTERACTIONIST THEORY Hamonangan Masasko Anthoni; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.386

Abstract

Internal conflict within local church leadership is an unavoidable reality in the life of any community of believers. Differences in vision, character, interest, leadership style, communication, and understanding of ministry can all become sources of conflict among church leaders. When left unmanaged, conflict can produce division, erode trust, foster rivalry among leaders, and diminish the effectiveness of church ministry. Managed constructively, however, conflict can become an instrument of evaluation, renewal, maturation, and improved leadership quality. This study examines, from a theological perspective, how conflict management can address internal conflict within local church leadership by drawing on interactionist theory. The research employs a qualitative method combining a literature review with a theological analysis of biblical texts concerning conflict, leadership, communication, reconciliation, and the life of the church community. Interactionist theory regards conflict not as something to be avoided altogether, but as a reality that, depending on its intensity and management, can yield functional benefits for an organization. From a theological perspective, conflict must be managed in the light of love, truth, humility, forgiveness, reconciliation, and the goal of building up the body of Christ. The findings indicate that local churches need a conflict management approach that focuses not merely on resolving problems but on restoring relationships and fostering the spiritual growth of leaders. While interactionist theory can therefore serve as a valid analytical lens for conflict management, it must ultimately be subordinated to theological principles and the ethics of Christian leadership.
THE DYNAMICS OF LEADERSHIP CONFLICT IN THE MODERN CHURCH: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDY ON CONGREGATIONAL DIVISION Ritwan Imanuel Tarigan; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.388

Abstract

Leadership conflict is one of the primary triggers for congregational division in the modern church, with widespread impacts on the spiritual, social, and organizational dimensions of the Christian community. This study aims to deeply examine the dynamics of leadership conflict in the modern church through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates theological, sociological, and psychological perspectives. Using a descriptive qualitative research method based on literature reviews and case study analysis, this research identifies that church leadership conflicts stem from structural authority ambiguity, competition of visions among church elites, leadership trauma, and polarization reinforced by social media dynamics. The analytical results indicate that congregational divisions caused by leadership conflicts occur through stages that can be mapped sociologically, understood through their psychological roots, and responded to theologically via reconciliation based on the love of Christ. This study recommends a church leadership model that is accountable, inclusive, and explicitly internalizes Christian values in conflict management as a strategy to prevent and resolve congregational divisions.
AN INTERDISCIPLINARY ANALYSIS OF INTERNAL CHURCH CONFLICT FROM THE PERSPECTIVES OF THEOLOGY, SOCIOLOGY AND PSYCHOLOGY Juni Balle; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.391

Abstract

Internal church conflict is a phenomenon frequently encountered in Christian community life, significantly impacting congregational unity and the effectiveness of ministry. This study aims to comprehensively analyze internal church conflict using an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses theological, sociological, and psychological perspectives. Employing a descriptive qualitative research method based on a literature review, the study examines various forms of internal church conflict ranging from leadership disputes, doctrinal differences, and conflicts among ministry workers to conflicts fueled by social media dynamics. The findings indicate that internal church conflicts are triggered by theological factors (such as differing doctrinal interpretations), sociological factors (such as factional rivalry and power dynamics), and psychological factors (including ego, relational trauma, and interpersonal communication failures). From an interdisciplinary standpoint, resolving church conflicts requires an approach involving Christian-based reconciliation, structural mediation within the sociological dimension, and empathetic psychological counseling. The study concludes that the most effective conflict resolution strategy is one that holistically integrates these three perspectives, with love and forgiveness serving as the foundational pillars.
PASTORAL LEADERSHIP-BASED CONFLICT MANAGEMENT STRATEGY IN BUILDING CONGREGATIONAL RECONCILIATION: A CASE STUDY AT GBKP RUNGGUN PERDAGANGAN Anselma Mildani Sibero; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.393

Abstract

Congregational conflict is an unavoidable phenomenon in the life of local churches, including within the Karo Batak Protestant Church (GBKP). This article aims to examine pastoral leadership-based conflict management strategies as an effort to build congregational reconciliation, focusing on a case study at GBKP Runggun Perdagangan. This study employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical case study method, gathering data through literature review, participatory observation, and structured interviews with elders and deacons (majelis runggun), full-time ministers, and church members involved in conflict dynamics. The theoretical framework integrates Speed Leas' levels of conflict, the Thomas-Kilmann conflict mode instrument, Norman Shawchuck and Roger Heuser's pastoral leadership theory, John Paul Lederach's reconciliation theory, and biblical foundations from Matthew 18:15–17, Galatians 6:1–2, and the Jacob–Esau reconciliation narrative in Genesis 33. Findings indicate that the root causes of conflict at GBKP Runggun Perdagangan stem from structural-organizational issues, generational differences regarding custom (adat) and liturgy, and a lack of transparent pastoral communication. Pastoral leadership applying a collaborative approach, Christian value-based mediation, and relational pastoral care proves significant in de-escalating conflict and opening space for sustainable reconciliation. This article recommends strengthening the pastoral conflict management capacity of the majelis runggun as an integral part of nurturing a healthy, spiritually mature congregation.
RECONCILIATION EFFORTS IN THE RESTORATION OF THE CONFLICT BETWEEN THE GKII AND KINGMI CHURCHES IN PAPUA Yulianus Pekei; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.394

Abstract

The conflict between the Indonesian Gospel Tabernacle Church (GKII) and the Gospel Tabernacle Church in the Land of Papua (KINGMI) is an ecclesiastical issue characterized by historical, institutional, identity-related, social, and relational complexities. The conflict, which has evolved since the two parties’ institutional separation, has resulted not only in divergent organizational structures but also in unresolved issues regarding leadership, legitimacy, assets, ecclesiastical identity, and inter-community relations. This study aims to analyze the roots and characteristics of the conflict between GKII and KINGMI, identify potential reconciliation efforts for restoring relations, and examine the factors that facilitate or hinder reconciliation between the two churches. A qualitative approach utilizing library research methods was employed. Data were gathered through the review of books, scholarly journal articles, ecclesiastical and legal documents, and various academic sources relevant to conflict, reconciliation, conflict transformation, and church development in Papua. The data were analyzed using a descriptive-interpretative method, drawing on perspectives of reconciliation and conflict transformation specifically the theories of Lederach. The findings indicate that the conflict between GKII and KINGMI is multidimensional and cannot be resolved solely through administrative or legal approaches. Restoration requires open dialogue, acknowledgment of history, resolution of justice and asset-related issues, trust-building, forgiveness, and collaborative ministry. Reconciliation need not entail organizational reunification; rather, it can be achieved through a shift in the relationship from hostility to mutual respect and constructive engagement. This study proposes a relationship-based reconciliation approach as a restoration model that can be sustainably developed within the context of the church and society in Papua.
CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AS A TRANSFORMATIONAL STRATEGY IN CHURCH GROWTH Agustria Empi; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.395

Abstract

Conflict is an unavoidable reality in church life due to differences in character, interests, experiences, understandings, and perspectives among community members. Conflict that is not managed appropriately can lead to division, erode trust in leadership, hinder ministry effectiveness, and impact church growth. However, conflict is not inherently destructive; when managed constructively, it can serve as a source of learning, evaluation, change, and organizational renewal for the church. This study aims to analyze conflict management as a transformational strategy to support church growth, specifically by strengthening leadership, communication, relationships, ministry systems, and the church's adaptability. The study employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method. Data were obtained through an examination of academic books, scholarly journal articles, and prior research related to conflict management, transformational leadership, organizational change, and church growth. Analysis was conducted using thematic and content analysis methods by identifying, categorizing, comparing, interpreting, and synthesizing concepts relevant to the research focus. The findings indicate that conflict management—implemented through conflict diagnosis, open communication, dialogue, mediation, reconciliation, and participatory leadership—can transform conflict into an opportunity for transformation. Conflict management also contributes to church growth by enhancing leadership quality, strengthening relationships, improving ministry systems, developing leaders, and increasing the church's capacity to navigate change. The novelty of this study lies in conceptualizing conflict management not merely as a problem-solving mechanism, but as a transformational strategy that integratively links conflict, organizational change, and church growth. Consequently, churches capable of managing conflict constructively have a greater opportunity for healthy, adaptive, and sustainable growth.
THE ROLE OF THE CHURCH AS AN AGENT OF RECONCILIATION IN ADDRESSING INTERNAL CONGREGATIONAL CONFLICT: A CRITICAL THEOLOGICAL STUDY Urbanu Da Costa; Yonas PAP
Jurnal Penelitian Progresif Vol 5 No 2 (2026): MARCH 2026 - AUGUST 2026
Publisher : CV Naskah Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.61992/jpp.v5i2.397

Abstract

Internal congregational conflict is an issue that can disrupt the unity, relational health, ministry effectiveness, and public witness of the church. This study aims to critically analyze the church's role as an agent of reconciliation in addressing internal congregational conflict and to formulate a reconciliation model relevant to contemporary church life. A qualitative approach utilizing library research methods was employed. Data were gathered from the Bible, theological texts, scholarly journal articles, and literature concerning church conflict, reconciliation, leadership, communication, and conflict transformation. Data analysis involved content and thematic analysis to identify, categorize, compare, and synthesize concepts related to the research focus. The findings indicate that the church bears not only the responsibility to resolve conflicts after they arise but also a theological mandate to act as an agent of reconciliation that actively fosters a culture of peace within the congregation. Internal conflicts were found to stem from various factors, including ineffective leadership, poor communication, conflicting interests, relational issues, group polarization, and weak conflict resolution mechanisms. The study reveals that effective reconciliation requires a multidimensional approach encompassing reconciliatory leadership, dialogic communication, pastoral care, mediation, trust restoration, and the cultivation of a peace-oriented culture. The study’s novelty lies in conceptualizing the church as an agent of reconciliation that shifts from a "conflict management" paradigm toward "conflict transformation." Consequently, reconciliation is understood not merely as a momentary act to halt conflict, but as an ongoing process of restoring relationships, rebuilding trust, strengthening congregational unity, and embodying the Gospel witness within the life of the church.