Thoughts for another day

Feb. 26, 2013.

Today's verse: Acts 15:39a. And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: (KJV)

(Pls. read the above before you read further.  Thanks)

In our churches and other gatherings where we worship God, have retreats, or do something that is of God, we always exhort members of the church to, not have disagreements or fights or other things that could rock the boat of peace of the church.  Then we notice that hypocrisy takes hold and the church member who has a problem with another will not air his grievance to him but to others; but before him, he will behave as if nothing has happened.  And this simmers and simmers and one day it all bursts and everything goes hay-wire and entire church is left wondering what happened.  There’s the other route where one of them being a mature person may not bring things to a head, but then again, it becomes like a festering wound, destined to destroy.

I call to mind our Scripture today; initially it disturbed me to think that two of the most respected and zealous preachers of the Word were at loggerheads, so much so that they separated!  And if you look at Paul’s reason, it’s even worse because he didn’t want to take along John Mark who in their early journey had left them before they completed it.  What do you think?  Isn’t it a bit difficult to digest for a Christian?  But look at what happened; God brought about so much good from both men.  What Paul did with Silas we know and we may not know the extent of Barnabas’ work, but I’m sure he also fortified the Church of Christ in the Asian regions.

This brings us to a vital element in our relationships in Church.  I’m sure neither Paul nor Barnabas had any hatred for the other, just a minor difference of opinion.  And even if they had any serious challenges, I believe they forgot about them and continued working for the glory of God.  This leads us to what our position should be in our churches or gatherings.  We may not like somebody, but if that person is working for God, we must whole-heartedly support him.  Besides, if someone insults me without thinking, I believe I must forgive; for a while I may harbor anger toward that person, but then pray for him and also pray that God gives the Grace to forgive him.  It’s important we swallow our pride and look to what we can do to bring glory to God and that settles all issues and is pleasing before Him, Who created us all.