Alex Kremer 08-28-2022 // Acts 1:36-41 - Irreconcilable Differences

When we read about the heroes of Scripture we do not see heroes larger than life who can do no wrong.  Instead, we see people like us used mightily by God to do extraordinary things.  But what Scripture does not do is gloss over the imperfections of its heroes.  Instead, we see imperfect characters, warts and all.  Life is messy and we as human beings are messy people.  Scripture shows that God's people are still messy people and that there are still fights and differences between us.

Paul and Barnabas were close companions who took the Gospel beyond the region of Palestine into Asia Minor, planting many churches.  When the issue of the role of circumcision in salvation, Paul and Barnabas confronted this false teaching together.  But when Paul approached Barnabas about a second missionary journey, a great difference arose between these two close friends regarding the inclusion of John Mark in the journey.  In the end, this disagreement proved irreconcilable, and the two parted ways.

We will see from today's lesson that God works even in these circumstances.  We also see the importance of discipleship in Christian ministry; it's not just about winning converts to the faith.

Thank you for listening to today's lesson.  May you be blessed and encouraged through the teaching of God's Holy Word.