Acts 15:37-38

Now Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark. But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work. 

Acts 15:37-38

In Acts 13, John Mark, who wrote the book of Mark, left Paul and Barnabas while on a mission’s trip. When Barnabas wanted John Mark to join them again in the above verses, Paul wanted nothing to do with him because he had deserted them before. This led to a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas and they went their separate ways.

While we should always try our best to get along with all people, there are times in our Christians walks personalities are going to clash. This doesn’t mean either party is necessarily wrong, but the chemistry doesn’t work. Paul couldn’t work with John Mark at this point in his life because he was on a mission and didn’t trust the young man.

In 2 Timothy 4:11, towards the end of his life, Paul wrote to Timothy, get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. Paul understood the importance of mending relationships and he did so with Mark. May we learn from Paul and God’s Word not to hold grudges.

Help me have Jesus’ love for others,

Pastor Ron Kitchell