Paul and Barnabas Disagreement, Early Church Unity, Christian Conflict Resolution, Encouragement in Ministry, Strengthening the Church, God’s Sovereignty in Disagreements, Encouraging New Believers, Early Church Decision-making
“The Apostolic Decree: The Council of Jerusalem, 49 A.D.” — In the solemn hall of Jerusalem, the apostles and elders send Paul, Barnabas, Judas Barsabbas, and Silas forth with the decree of unity — the Spirit-guided decision that reconciled Jew and Gentile in one faith. Gérôme’s classical realism captures the sacred gravitas of this moment: the aged James the Just blesses the emissaries, Peter gestures with serene conviction, and Paul receives the scroll that will carry peace to the nations. A beam of golden light, filtering through arched windows, sanctifies the gathering — the Church’s first great act of concord.
Resolving Conflict for the Gospel:
How God Uses Disagreements to Strengthen His Church
The events in Acts 15:22-41 occur during the early days of the Christian church, a time when Jewish and Gentile believers were learning to live and worship together. The Jerusalem Council had just resolved a major theological dispute about whether Gentile converts needed to follow Jewish laws, particularly circumcision. This decision marked a pivotal moment in the church's mission to include all nations. However, even as unity was achieved on one front, personal disagreements arose, showing that even the apostles were not immune to conflict.
After the Jerusalem Council, the apostles and elders sent a letter to the Gentile believers, affirming their inclusion in the faith without the burden of Jewish ceremonial laws. Paul and Barnabas, along with Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, were chosen to deliver this message. The church in Antioch received the letter with joy and encouragement. However, a sharp disagreement arose between Paul and Barnabas over John Mark's participation in their next missionary journey. This led to their separation, with Barnabas taking Mark to Cyprus and Paul choosing Silas to travel through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
Acts 15:39-40: "Their disagreement was so sharp that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord." This verse highlights the humanity of the apostles and the reality of conflict in ministry. Despite their disagreement, God used their separation to multiply the mission, sending two teams instead of one. It reminds us that God can work through our differences to accomplish His purposes.
Conflict is an inevitable part of life, even among believers. The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas shows that even the most faithful servants of God can have differing opinions. However, this passage also demonstrates that God can use our conflicts for His glory. Paul and Barnabas parted ways, but their separation led to the expansion of the gospel. Later in his letters, Paul speaks highly of both Barnabas and John Mark, showing that reconciliation and mutual respect are possible after conflict.
Seek Unity in Essentials: Like the Jerusalem Council, focus on what unites us in Christ rather than what divides us.
Handle Disagreements with Grace: When conflicts arise, approach them with humility and a willingness to listen.
Trust God’s Sovereignty: Even when relationships are strained, trust that God can use the situation for His purposes.
How do I handle disagreements with other believers?
Are there relationships in my life that need reconciliation?
How can I trust God to work through difficult situations for His glory?
What steps can I take to promote unity in my church or community?
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for showing us through Your Word that even in conflict, You are at work. Help us to approach disagreements with grace and humility, seeking unity in Christ. Teach us to trust in Your sovereignty and to be instruments of reconciliation in our relationships. May our lives reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
"How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!" —Psalm 133:1
This week, reach out to someone with whom you’ve had a disagreement. Seek to understand their perspective, offer forgiveness, or ask for it if needed. Let God use your efforts to bring healing and unity.
