Acts 15:39

New International Version (NIV)

They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company.

For meditation

In the story of Paul and Barnabas’ disagreement over John Mark (Acts 15:36-41), we are confronted with the universal truth of human weakness when our personalities clash, and how God works it all out for our good and His purpose (Rm. 8:28). Who would have thought that the great ‘apostle to the gentiles’ and the great ‘son of encouragement’ would stand toe to toe in their unrestrained passions over the choice of a helper for their missionary journey (Acts 15:36)? But that’s what happened when Paul sharply objected to Mark’s inclusion on their team,while Barnabas demanded it. “They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company” (39). The real issue to consider here is not who was right or wrong, but what God did with their separation.

Silas became a strong partner to Paul, while Barnabas mentored John Mark into a “useful” associate to Paul in the latter part of his ministry (2 Tim. 4:11). Out of that human ugliness, God fashioned two wonderful ministers for His work. The amazing thing is how Paul accepted John Mark’s  ministry when the need arose. That is a sterling example for us to emulate; for the urgency of God’s work must always overrule our personal feelings. Disagreements may come and we may wound one another with hurtful words, but we should never consider ourselves as enemies in His vineyard. His work must go on.

1. Could Paul and Barnabas have avoided their separation?
2. Could the church have intervened with a peaceful solution?
3. Was John Mark’s desertion so terrible that he didn’t deserve a second chance?
4. Did Paul forget the ministry of Barnabas in his life when he needed it?
5. How did the two men feel when they went their separate ways?

These are questions we can work through to help us gain insight and wisdom when we disagree with others. The caution is for us not to use this incidence as excuse for our stubborn posturing in ministry or family arguments, but to see reason for moderation when we censure others.

So: May the Lord heal your wounds from the bad argument you may be recovering from; and may He bring something good out of your disagreement for His glory!

Shalom