Acts 15:36-41 – Adios!

Read Acts 15:36-41

That was a surprise. It seemed like Paul and Barnabas had really bonded. They had suffered much together. Apparently, they had differing opinions when it came to John Mark. I’m not clear what happened to John Mark when he left them halfway through their first missionary journey, but I do recall he returned to Jerusalem. Apparently, there was an unresolved issue that had been present under the surface for some time. It seems like Paul was a little less forgiving than Barnabas.

Nothing will negate the lives that were changed by Paul and Barnabas while they ministered together. By separating and going their different directions, God will continue to use them to multiply his kingdom. Sometimes fresh associations can strengthen a ministry. We see that time and again in churches. When one pastor leaves to serve another church, a new pastor arrives. While ministry may look or sound different, people still embrace the word of God and a new perspective. Many times the new voice will engage new followers that hadn’t been touched before.

Did God intend for Paul and Barnabas to split? One might speculate and say, no. However, it is good for us to see how these men were still human, acting on impulses or inner convictions. God didn’t turn off their ministries because they went a different direction. God resorted to Plan B, and Silas was in the right place at the right time. You may recall Silas was one of the messengers who had brought news of the requirements to the Gentiles and Jews following the meeting of the council. Rather than return to Jerusalem, he stayed. A new bond will be made between Paul and Silas as they team up for ministry.

What were your thoughts as you read the passage today? Did you feel sorry for anyone? Could you identify with either Paul or Barnabas, John Mark or Silas? It is important to find our own way when it comes to the kingdom of God. How are we going to fit in? Where is God calling us to be? Have we been given gifts that are being used for God’s glory? Have we asked God to be used in some way?

Take some time today to reflect on your place in the recruitment of God’s kingdom. Remember God is the one who ultimately does the work, we merely plant seeds, water, and nurture.

Let’s pray. Father God, give me peace when the unexpected happens in my life and I feel blindsided, abandoned, lost, alone, or unsure. Thank you for your promise to never leave or forsake me. You continue to be my rock through any storm I may face. Your provisions are best, and I thank you for when you have had to come up with a Plan B or Plan C for me. Forgive me for those times of distraction. Watch over my loved ones and bring a holy one into their path to bless and keep them close to you. Use me to be a holy one for other wayward souls. May I be a shining light for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.