Another Chance for John Mark

The book of Acts recounts a special moment in Antioch when the prophets, apostles, and church leaders were fasting and praying, and the Holy Spirit said to set apart Paul and Barnabas for the ministry. So they laid hands on them and they were sent out — taking John Mark with them.

After overcoming the first challenge they faced, John Mark turned back and abandoned them. Paul, however, continued the mission with Barnabas, preaching in cities such as Iconium and Lystra, where Paul was stoned but kept alive by God, and later in Antioch and Jerusalem, where they reported the miracles they had seen.

Paul decided to revisit the churches, and Barnabas joined him. John Mark also expressed his desire to go, but Paul refused, as he had already abandoned them once. So Barnabas went with Mark, and Paul went with Silas.

Barnabas, whose name means “Son of Encouragement,” must have played a role in Mark’s restoration. Later on in his letters, Paul mentions Mark as part of his ministry team. In his final letter to Timothy, Paul says, “Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry.”

God gave him a great opportunity — he even became a close companion to the apostle Peter until his death, and the author of the Gospel according to Mark.

A new opportunity is coming for you!