Sunday, April 15, 2012

Acts 15:36-16:10 "Plan B" Questions for Reflection and Discussion

Luke in Acts 13:13 reports that John Mark, after sailing from Paphos and arriving in Perga “departed from them” returning to Jerusalem. Barnabas wanted to give John Mark a second chance by taking him along on the planned second missionary journey (15:37). This desire of Barnabas is consistent with what we know of his character and gifting as an encourager. After all, it was Barnabas who took the risk of introducing the former persecutor of Christians, Saul and introduced him to the apostles (Acts 9:27). Paul, did not want to entrust ministry to John Mark as he had previously abandoned the team. (Acts 15:38) Ultimately ministry partnership between Paul, Barnabas and John Mark was restored. What insights do the following Scriptures reveal about the restored relationship these men experienced?

1 Corinthians 9:6—

Galatians 2:1—

Colossians 4:10—

Philemon 24—

2 Timothy 4:11—

1 Peter 5:13—(John Mark’s relationship to Peter)

Read 2 Timothy 2:24-25; Romans 12:9-18; and Ephesians 4:32. Is the Holy Spirit making you aware of any divisiveness against a fellow Christian for which you need to repent? Has the Holy Spirit made you aware of someone you need to forgive?

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