Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. But Paul disagreed strongly, since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus. Paul chose Silas, and as he left, the believers entrusted him to the Lord’s gracious care.
(Acts 15:37-40 NLT)
After reading about Paul and Barnabas’ great ministry together, it’s very disappointing to learn about their sharp disagreement and separation. However, they didn’t let it get in the way of the ministry, and Paul’s letters seem to indicate that Paul, Barnabas and Mark eventually worked out their differences (see 1 Corinthians 9:6; Colossians 4:10; Philemon 24; 2 Timothy 4:11). It’s painful to be separated from the people that we love because of a disagreement. But the good news is that any broken relationship can be restored and strengthened.
Broken relationships can be restored.
