The Split
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- Aug 30
- 2 min read
Rev Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 30 2025 | Acts 15:36-41
KEY VERSE: “And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other… But Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.” Acts 15:39-40 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
Paul and Barnabas shared a long history of serving together. When Paul’s conversion was doubted, it was Barnabas who spoke on his behalf before the apostles (Acts 9:26–30). Later, Barnabas went to Tarsus to seek out Paul and brought him to Antioch, where they taught many believers for an entire year (Acts 11:25-26). Together, they answered the Spirit’s call in Antioch and carried out their first missionary journey, preaching across the Gentile world with great fruit (Acts 13–14).
Yet in Acts 15:36–41, we see them at odds. Paul suggested they revisit the churches to strengthen the believers. Barnabas agreed, but wanted to take John Mark with them. Paul strongly opposed this, since Mark had deserted them earlier at Pamphylia (Acts 13:13). Barnabas, who was also Mark’s cousin (Colossians 4:10), wanted to give him another chance. The disagreement grew so sharp that they parted ways—Barnabas took Mark to Cyprus, while Paul chose Silas and left with the church’s blessing.
Even faithful servants can disagree deeply. Yet God worked through both teams. Paul later spoke of Mark as a valuable co-worker (2 Timothy 4:11). What seemed like failure became another channel for mission.
Paul and Barnabas employed both teaching and preaching—two distinct but complementary methods. Teaching grounds believers in doctrine; preaching stirs hearts toward transformation. Their balanced approach ensured both depth and passion in the ministry.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Conflict is part of life, even among devoted believers. The key is how we respond. Before taking sides, pause to seek God’s will. Pray through decisions about people and ministry. Be careful not to join every vision or bring others on board without clarity. When possible, pursue restoration; when not, separate with love and respect. God allows us to see the weaknesses of His servants so we learn humility, wisdom, and dependence on His grace.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, when I face conflict or sharp disagreement, help me to put Your will above my pride. Teach me to choose wisely, handle issues prayerfully, and stay focused on Your mission. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 242: Nehemiah 7–9 — Wall Completed and Law Read
DAILY word study: DISAGREEMENT The word “disagreement” translates the Greek paroxysmos, meaning “a sharp contention” or “provocation.” It implies an intense clash of feelings or convictions.
In Acts 15:39, the disagreement was not mild but strong enough to separate two seasoned missionaries. Scripture does not hide such tensions, reminding us that Christian unity does not mean the absence of conflict. What matters is whether God’s mission continues to advance.
Reflect on this: Conflict can either derail or redirect us. When handled prayerfully, even sharp disagreements can become opportunities for God to multiply His work.
Comments