Lesser Known Disciples
And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had completed their service, bringing with them John, whose other name was Mark. Acts 12:25 (ESV)
Barnabas and Saul had a disagreement. We can read a bunch into that statement. We can imagine a spectrum between a civil conversation and a ‘knockdown, drag-out’ shouting match. The Spirit of God doesn’t give us all the details, but simply reveals that a disagreement about John Mark led to Paul and Silas going one way and Barnabas and his cousin (John Mark) going another.
This doesn’t mean that Paul and Barnabas never spoke again. It doesn’t insinuate that Paul no longer considered John useful for the ministry. In fact, when the Spirit of God later moved Paul to write to the Colossians, John Mark was with him and had been a comfort to him (Colossians 4:10-11).
John Mark was a believer from Jerusalem, a son of a woman named Mary. (Acts 12:12) It’s believed that John Mark had a close relationship with Simon Peter. When Peter was released from prison, he went to Mary’s home, where they were gathered praying.
Many believe that God used John Mark to write the Gospel entitled the Gospel of Mark. This Gospel is sometimes called ‘Peter’s Gospel’ because he plays a prominent role. It’s also a vivid account, as if the one writing was personally present at some of the events described. Finally, in his first letter, the Apostle Peter calls Mark his son, indicating a close personal relationship. (1 Peter 5:13)
Let’s face it, disagreements happen from time to time. We may not always agree about what should be done, but as brothers in fellowship in Christ, we can work together. God has a plan for all of us. Let’s look for His plan and use the gifts He gives to glorify Him.
O Almighty God, who has enriched Your Church with the Gospel written by Your Evangelist Mark, give us grace that we may firmly believe the glad tidings of salvation and daily walk in a way that glorifies the Savior Jesus, through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord.
The Prayer for St. Mark’s Day, The Lutheran Hymnal