Acts #19 – Study Questions
The Conflict of Paul and Barnabas
Acts 15:36-16:5
INTRODUCTION: What was the last conflict you had with someone in the church? What was it over? And, were you surprised that a conflict would even arise between two Jesus-loving people? In this passage, two of the greatest theological voices in the early church found themselves in serious disagreement. What was it over? One guy, John Mark. Specifically, they disagreed over the question of whether Mark should again accompany them. Paul was against the proposal since, in his view, Mark had defected from the previous campaign and presumably he felt that he might do so again. Barnabas was willing to take the risk again. The matter developed into one of principle, so that the two colleagues decided to separate, each taking one share of the territories previously visited, and Paul set off with Silas.[1] We should not be surprised that this conflict happened. Paul was deeply hurt by Mark’s actions in the past. Barnabas was Mark’s cousin, probably had some long heart to hearts with him, and believed he deserved another shot. Paul could not be convinced. So rather than let this derail the mission, they went in different directions. Sometimes the only healthy resolution is to agree to disagree. In the long run, Paul’s mind on John Mark will be changed, and he will come to see his fortitude and dependence. For now, though, what we see is that how we handle conflict exposes what we value the most.
GETTING STARTED – Growing up in church, I have heard some silly arguments about things that didn’t matter. One time there was a conflict over what shade of red for the new carpet in the sanctuary. Everyone agreed that it should be red… but the shade of red, now, that is something worth arguing over! We shouldn’t be surprised the arguments happen. After all, church is full of messy people. What is an example of a silly conflict you experienced in church or outside of church? Or, how have you seen conflict handled in a Godly fashion?
IN THE WORD – Let’s dig back into the passage. It is important to strengthen our muscles in reading God’s Word. On Sunday, we walked through the passage in the sermon. Hopefully, that helped you to see the landmarks of the passage with fresh eyes. Now, with your group, go back through it and see what God is saying to you specifically.
First, before you read the passage, take a moment to ask God’s Spirit to quiet your mind and heart and to illuminate the text to you. Second, read the passage aloud to the group. Then, follow the simple method below. (O.P.A)
Observe: Make 8-10 observations from the passage. Pay close attention to observe and note repeated words and phrases, names, places, and themes.
Principles: From your list of observations, what patterns or big ideas do you see emerging? Can you distill it down into 2-4 big idea truths?
Apply: Moving from your list of principles, it is time to apply God’s Word. Remember, we believe that God’s Word is living and active and that it can change the way we live Monday- Friday. What is one tangible way to apply a truth from your list above?
[1] I. Howard Marshall, Acts: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 5, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1980), 272.