Trouble in Paradise

Bradley Johnson • August 18, 2023

Differing Opinions Can Never Derail God's Plan

   Just when everything seems to being well trouble arises out of nowhere. Acts 15 concludes with the Jerusalem church affirming Paul and Barnabus’s mission to the Gentiles and their spiritual success in Antioch (15:30-32). However, the next threat to the unity of the church arises from an unlikely source; the partnership between Paul and Barnabus. Acts 15:36-41 describes how this division rattled the discipleship program of Paul and Barnabus, yet it did not derail God’s plan. As you read this week's passage, ask yourself these questions.

  • Who was right in this disagreement? Is either one in the right?
  • Why are there disagreements between believers? Why are we slow to see our own fault in a disagreement?
  • How should we respond to disagreements between believers?
  • How did God use this disagreement to further His plan (Chapter 16)? 

  • Read Acts 15:36-41

    Paul and Barnabas Separate

    36 And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” 37 Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. 38 But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. 39 And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. 41 And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.


    Acts 15:36–41 (ESV)