Forever Home in the Eternal Family of God

Daily Encouragement for the Family of God by Kenton Cheek

22 November 2024

Reading From Acts 15-16

“Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.”

–Acts 15:36-41

     I am glad that a record of this disagreement is found in Scripture because it shows that believers can have a difference of opinion and still be faithful to the Lord.  It seems as though Barnabas is inclined to give John Mark a second chance but Paul preferred to hold him accountable for his track record.  Both views have merit. 

It isn’t that Barnabas was wrong or that Paul was wrong, they simple saw the situation differently and it was enough of a difference that they parted ways.  In a way this can be seen as a blessing as Barnabas traveled with John Mark to Cyprus and Paul and Silas traveled through Syria and Cilicia, thus covering far more ground for the Gospel than if they had stayed together.  Divide and conquer.

     As we look at the Christian landscape today, a common view is to think negatively concerning the many fractious denominations, associations, conventions, ministries and churches.  I personally see the great diversity in the Body of Christ as a strength because there are over seven billion people in the world each with their own personality, so if we are to reach all of those people, isn’t it better to have a great diversity of faith communities and flavors for them to choose from?

I believe it is better to focus on the essentials that bring us together, strive to better understand those interesting non-essential beliefs and styles that make us unique, and to above all, love God, love others and love ourselves.  Our common ground should find its foundation upon Christ and His Word.  Just as Barnabas and Paul did, sometimes we need to be okay to agree to disagree.  As born again children of the Most High God, we’re still part of His eternal family.

“God, I pray that Your sons and daughters will order their priorities rightly.  Reveal to our hearts and minds what is essential and non-essential for us to believe and practice.  May we love each other enough to allow for differences of opinion, but I pray that those differences would not hinder fellowship and joining together to fulfill the Great Commandment and the Great Commission You gave to us as Your Church.  You are the Head and we are Your Bride.  Thank You for Your patience with us as You sanctify us, shape us and prepare us for our glorious destiny with You in the New Heaven and the New Earth.  Amen.”

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

 –Ephesians 4:1-6