Acts 15:37-39
Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company.
This is a painful moment, but I’m so glad Dr Luke recorded it. He could quite easily have airbrushed it out of his account, but he didn’t. Paul and Barnabas fell out over taking John Mark on the next missionary journey. It’s impossible for us to know exactly why, although we are told that Paul was disappointed by the way John Mark had deserted them on the first missionary journey. Because we know Barnabas was a great encourager, it is easy to presume that he wanted to give John Mark a second chance. However, there may well have been other factors we are unaware of. What we know for sure is that they split up.
Splits and disagreements are never easy. I don’t want to make light of this, but it is also important to see them in light of the wider perspective – which is far easier after the event, and almost impossible at the time. What matters is that we live with such prayerfulness, humility and grace that we are able to face these moments in a Christ-like way. Occasional disagreements are inevitable, but they don’t need to have the last word. As we place ourselves in God’s hands, He can bring blessing, even after the most painful splits.
Question
In what way could you better prepare yourself to face tough times?
Prayer
Loving God, thank you that You are with us in every moment, however challenging. Amen

Released on 24 Aug 2026