“In Between Normals”: A 30 Day Devotion on the Book of Acts预览

The Power of a Second Chance

You might be surprised. But the truth is, Christians (and pastors) do disagree with one another. Sometimes fiercely. Before Paul and Barnabas embarked on their second missionary journey, they had "such a sharp disagreement that they parted company." (15:39) So, what was it about?

It’s not about "something." It was about "someone." John Mark.

During the first journey, John Mark "deserted" them mid-trip. Paul considered Mark so unfaithful and untrustworthy that he couldn’t work with him anymore. In the end, Barnabas took Mark and went to Cyprus. Paul took Silas and went a different way.

So, why did Barnabas vouch for Mark?

Everyone Needs a Second Chance

Remember how Barnabas travelled over 600 miles to seek out Saul of Tarsus? Then took Saul to Antioch and mentored him "for a whole year"? Look! Barnabas gave Saul of Tarsus a second chance. Now, he wanted to do the same for Mark.

Paul was not wrong when he dismissed Mark. But history will forever remember how Barnabas raised up two of the most important leaders in the early church -- Saul of Tarsus and John Mark.

The Power of a Second Chance

Lets fast forward 15 years or so. Paul was now near the end of his life. He wrote his final letter to his protégé Timothy. In his letter, he wrote, "Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry." (2 Timothy 4:11)

Wait! Mark? What are we missing here?

This is roughly what happened. Barnabas took Mark with him to Cyprus. He gave Mark a second chance. He mentored him just like he mentored Saul before. Later, God gave Mark an opportunity to serve with Apostle Peter. It was from Peter that Mark learned the life and teachings of Jesus. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is how we have the Gospel of Mark!

No Barnabas, no Paul. No Barnabas, no John Mark, no Gospel of Mark.

My friend, how about you? Yes, I understand. "They" may not "deserve" a second chance, but perhaps they "need" a second chance. Can you do that for the sake of Christ Jesus our Lord?

Reflection:

Do you think Barnabas was taking too much of a risk to give Mark a second chance? What if it didn't work out? Is there someone in your life that "needs" a second chance from you?