Thoughts for the Day

Paul and Barnabas Separate

After some days Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Come, let us return and visit the believers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.’ Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul decided not to take with them one who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. The disagreement became so sharp that they parted company; Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas and set out, the believers commending him to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

This little passage from Luke's 'Acts of the Apostles' tells of a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark, who had originally started their travels from Jerusalem with them, but had turned back to go home after awhile. Paul has suggested they visit all the places they first went to proclaim the Gospel, to see how they are fairing. It is a courageous plan since they have faced considerable opposition in most of these towns. Barnabas wants to recall his cousin John Mark to go with them, but having been let down by him once before Paul is unwilling (Acts 13.13). The disagreement is so strong that they go their separate ways, Barnabas to Cyprus (his native country) with John Mark, and Paul with Silas (who had been sent from Jerusalem) to revisit the new churches that had been established.

At this point are you disappointed, wondering why the Apostles are behaving like this? If so, don't forget these 'Fathers of the Church' are ordinary men. They have faith enough to move mountains and are entirely dedicated to God's work. The problem is that each man sees their ministry in a slightly different way. Each is totally committed to the work of spreading the Gospel - but in different ways and different directions.,

This situation should remind us that even those who share the same beliefs can have different opinions and choose to take different actions. We only need to look at the many Christian denominations to see this to be true. Conflict is inevitable, even among believers, but what matters is how we handle it. This passage teaches us that disagreements can be opportunities for growth for both Apostles were to take the Gospel message to new places. But reconciliation and forgiveness are always possible - Paul was to ask for Mark's help while in prison in Rome (2 Timothy 4.11, Philemon 1.23-24).

Lord Jesus Christ,
when we find ourselves disagreeing with others
especially when it concerns our faith,
may we take time out to consult You.
Help us to seriously consider opposite viewpoints
and only proceed with caution.
Then, Lord, may we seek reconciliation and forgiveness
even when our paths diverge.
Amen.