Unity When You Don't Agree (Part 2) (Acts 15:36-41)
Last Sunday, we looked at the first part of Acts 15, where people strove for unity through dialogue, compromise, and prayer. It was a pivotal and magnificent moment in the history of the early church, when they stayed unified even through a massive cultural and theological shift.
This week at Grace, we're looking at the last part of Acts 15, where none of that happens, and the result is that two godly, mature Christians (Paul and Barnabas) separate from each other over something that seems so small in comparison.
How could unity be shipwrecked on such a small rock?
Looking forward to examining this short and sobering passage with you this Sunday, and learning from its example for us today.
In Christ,
Pastor Bob
36 And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” 37 Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. 38 But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. 39 And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
- Acts 15:36-41