How did you get to be a Christian? 08/20/2022
We were not born Christians. What happened is we were born into a world of sin, people, situations, and places that changed our path to Christianity. We made choices to take a path toward the Lord of all. God chose us and we accepted. Take a moment and think of how you got here.
In Acts 15:36-41, we learn of a disagreement about John Mark between Barnabas and Paul. Working in the mission field can be hectic and demanding. We know that the early Christian Churches had their challenges. See if the following scriptures resemble challenges that we have in our ministry and Christian walk.
Paul and Barnabas Separate
Acts 15:36 And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.
Acts 15:37 And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.
Acts 15:38 But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.
Acts 15:39 And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;
Acts 15:40 And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.
Acts 15:41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
Was Paul right in not wanting to take Mark?
- Acts 13:13 “Now Paul and his companions set sail from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia. And John left them and returned to Jerusalem,” this is the scripture that talks about Paul’s concern.
Was Barnabas right to give John Mark a second chance?
- It is good to note that John Mark is Barnabas's cousin.
We know that Barnabas and Paul work things out for the better. And we know that Paul and Mark work things out as well.
- 1Corinthians 9:6 “Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?” Here we see Barnabas and Paul working together.
- Colossians 4:10 “Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)”
- 2Timothy 4:11 “Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.”
- We see they worked things out for the betterment of the Ministry.
We also know that the Holy Spirit led John Mark to write the “Gospel according to Mark” one of the four Gospels. Mark went through these trials to be the person he is. Also, Paul and Barnabas as well went through trials to be who they are. We and Our ministries go through trials; that only makes us stronger.
Barnabas gave Mark a second chance to be part of the ministry. We should remember that the early Christians had trials and tribulations just as we do today. We need to remember to work out these tests for the betterment of Our Ministry. We must give each other a second chance for God's Ministry. We must do this in Brotherly Love, remember God is in control.
God has a plan for all of us, we have a purpose in the ministry of our Lord. Look for it and be ready to receive it. Amen.
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
By Roger Dale Lampley
Deacon McCombs Baptist Church
God Bless
