Sermon notes
The events recorded in Chapter 15 revolve around the actions taken by the church to combat error that had threatened the truth of the gospel and the faith of all who believed it.
Following the drama in Antioch and then in Jerusalem, Paul and his preaching companions remain in Antioch for a time, v35. He is then stirred to go again on another great missionary journey.
One of the things to be expected in the work of God among men is that difficulties in the work and devilish opposition to the work never go away. Cp 1Peter 5:8. In one form or another, challenges to the progress of God’s cause come. Sometimes the source/origin of the obstacle is surprising. It certainly is so here.
I THE BEGINNING OF THE JOURNEY IS MARKED BY A RIFT BETWEEN PAUL AND BARNABAS
It is strange that in this context such events are recorded. Strenuous efforts had been made in the Council of Jerusalem to ensure unity around the truth. A second missionary journey was desired by Paul, v36. Even such a noble desire became the occasion of this division between two ministers of the gospel.
- Insistence, v37. Barnabas set his mind on having John Mark, his nephew, join them. Paul’s objection is given, v38, along with the rationale behind it. He had carefully weighed up the proposition and decided against it. Paul was no tyrant in such matters. Cp 1Cor 16:12. Decisions on who to work with in the cause of God can have serious ramifications. Often those decisions are made on the basis of foolish/selfish thinking. Specifically, family interests can harm the work of God. Cp Luke 14:26.
- Sharp contention, v39. A quarrel arose that could not be mended. Both adhered to their views and were inflexible. Good men can often be divided by such disputes. Often, it is only in later events that we can discern who was right/wrong. As the situation unfolds here, it becomes clear that Paul was in the right and that this was the mind of the church at large.
- Barnabas’ response, v39. He was so determined in this matter that he decided to go alone. There is no further mention of this journey and its outcome. There is not even clear evidence that this was a missionary endeavor at all! He had an historical connection to Cyprus, 4:36-37.
- Paul, with the support of the church, continued his work, v40-41. The work of God went on. Silas is added in Barnabas’ place, 15:40. Paul’s position is vindicated it appears. Barnabas found himself on the outside of that work for a time. Both men later recovered themselves to usefulness in the ministry, Col 4:10, 2Tim 4:11.