Essay Instructions

Using the essay topics provided below, write a 5 page paper essay (using 1 topic from below ). that deal directly with the issue you have selected. You may develop the topic in any way you wish. You may use any materials presented as part of the course content to back up your opinions. The remaining essay topics should be used as a study guide for the final exam.

Please use APA style for your Works Cited section and all formatting within your paper.

Topic Choices

1. Elaborate on the four Gs of peacemaking as identified by Sande. Use the following references for support: I Cor. 10:32, Matt. 7:5, Gal. 6:1, Matt. 5:24, Eph. 4:1-4, Eph. 4:29-32, Phil. 4:5-10, Col. 4:5-6.

2. Using all class texts and lecture notes, define conflict. Your answer should be exhaustive and identify characteristics from several definitions. In addition, discuss at least three metaphors of conflict that help to explain how people may view conflict. Why are so many words and metaphors negative when they define conflict?

3. Sande claims that conflict situations may be an opportunity to "Glorify God." Explain the validity of his argument and give 1 illustration of how you have applied this principle this semester. What were the positive outcomes?

4. Sande suggests that it is the Christian's responsibility to live in peace. Develop and evaluate his argument. Use Scripture and Christian ethics/morality to support this premise. What are some of the lifestyle methods Christians can use to carry out this command of Christ?

5. Discuss the biblical concept of "forgiveness" in relationships. Support the concept from Scripture and any of the articles from your Helmick text. What are the foundational characteristics and behaviors necessary to practicing forgiveness in interpersonal relationships? Why is forgiveness so hard to practice? To what degree is forgiveness necessary for reconciliation?

6. Discuss Cahn & Abigail's categorization of "real" and "unreal" conflicts. Define and give examples of each type.

7. Explain the basic characteristics of the following positive and negative models for conflict resolution: What are the strengths and weaknesses of each model:

Positive
Borishoff
Mediation
Arbitration
S-TLC
Weeks
Dana

Negative
Conquest
Bargaining
Band-aid
Role-player
Avoidance