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Home , John Mark

APOSTOLIC CHURCH OF PENNSYLVANIA [Mount of Redemption]

5200 PASCHALL AVENUE, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19143. TEL/FAX 215 724 5711

BIBLE STUDY

COURSE OUTLINE: v 21-41 January 21st, 2009

NEXT WEEK: v 1-24

COURSE TITLE: THE DECREE

*A decree is a formal order with a predetermined purpose. The council at Jerusalem unanimously agreed with the choice of messengers and with the contents of the letter [Acts 15 v 22-29].

* The apostles and the elders [Acts 15 v 6] eventually decreed and sent two representatives from the council: a Judean by name “Judas” [called Barsabbas] and an Hellenist by name “”; along with Paul and to support and confirm the ruling of the council.

*It is interesting to note the process the council followed in resolving this conflict. First, the problem was clearly stated. Each side was represented in a debate. Second, the facts were presented by those who were acquainted with them. Third, the counsel was given by a person trusted for his objectivity and wisdom. Fourth, unanimity was sought in their decisions and Fifth, the attitude of preserving the unity of the spirit [Acts 15 v 28] remained utmost on the council’s mind.

*This is a lesson to the church that the usage of this type of formula would be helpful in resolving conflicts found within the church today. It would also be helpful in bringing love, unity and harmony amongst the body of Christ if wisdom, objectivity and total reliance on Holy Spirit guidance could be upheld when taking decisions.

*The opening events of Paul’s second missionary journey commenced at the tail end of this chapter [Acts 15 v 36] and the journey ends in v 22 with Paul going up to visit the church at Jerusalem and then returning to the church at “ of ” [Acts 18 v 22]

*The story came to a close with a contention that occurred between Paul and Barnabas. The contention became so sharp that they parted [Acts 15 v 39]. These heated argument occurred between them over “John Mark” usefulness to their ministry. Barnabas determined to take John Mark [Acts 15 v 37]; while Paul thought it not good that John Mark should accompany them [Acts 15 v 38]. It would be recalled that John Mark had earlier deserted Paul and Barnabas in [ v 13].

*The lesson derived in this segment is this: Paul and Barnabas were spiritual men and full of the Holy Spirit. Yet they disagreed and made mistakes. Although Luke does not assign blame for the disagreement, nevertheless, Luke does implies that Paul’s decision was less emotional. Paul thought and chose [Acts 15 v 38] rather than determined like Barnabas [Acts 15 v 37].

*There would be times in this “Christian race” when as Believers, we will not agree on certain aspects of ministry or church administration. Perhaps the best option or course of action in some of those situations is to work separately without conflicts.

*Although Barnabas left with John Mark [Acts 15 v 39] and Paul left with Silas—a prophet [Acts 15 v 40, Acts 15 v 32]; It is interesting to note that John Mark was eventually reconciled to Paul and again helped Paul in his ministry [2Tim. 4 v 11]. During Paul imprisonment, John Mark was also included in Paul’s group of ministers [Col. 4 v 10, Phm. 24].

NB: Study is on Wednesday’s from 7pm to 9pm. Remain blessed as you come in the name of our Lord and Savior Christ.