Parting Company

After some time had passed, Paul said to Barnabas, "Let us go back and visit the brothers in every town where we have preached the message of the Lord and see how they are doing." Barnabas wanted to take along John Mark. But Paul did not think it appropriate to take along this man who had deserted them in Pamphylia and not gone on with them to the work. There was such a sharp disagreement that they parted company and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed off to Cyprus. Then Paul chose Silas and departed, after being commended to the grace of the Lord by the brothers. He travelled through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. Acts 15:36-47

Tow great men fought over who to take on a misssion. I guess when we fight it is because we want to defend our position which we hold dear. Barnabas, the ever forgiving and graceful man, wanted to give John Mark a second chance. Paul was not one to give second chances as readily. Their opinion came from two different places. Their strengths: Barbabas, graceful and encourager, Paul strong leader and decisive. Strengths have their place, but there are times when we need to lay them down and investigate. If both Paul and Barnabas had had a discussion with John Mark they could have determined his position. Would he repeat his former behaviour? Had he grown? By being willing to be wrong and willing to change, perhaps they could have gone together. Yet, the Holy Spirit did not seem too bothered. As it turned out He had two teams, instead of one, both going in different directions. As He is the master of heart changes, I am sure He was quite able to restore this relationship.

Don't be too upset if you have a dispute and part company, all things can work together for good for those who love God. Let God be God and keep out of that department, He is also the judge. Amen!


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