Separate Ways

Acts 15: 36 – 41

And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other, Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commented by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Some years ago I helped lead an event that I believe God laid on my heart. However, a dear friend and colleague in the ministry felt strongly against this event. Though we worked through some of the issues, we finally decided it would be best for us to go our separate ways. We didn’t dislike each other. We didn’t have a falling out. It was just a difference of opinion. And we’re still very good friends and prayer partners to this day.

Through that experience I learned a very important lesson. Not every split or disagreement damages the body of Christ. Two Christians can see things quite differently, go their separate ways, and still have unity when it comes to God’s overall purposes. Not every disagreement and separation is destructive. Sometimes God uses them to multiply and expand the impact of his kingdom.

Acts 15:39-40 records the well-known disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. Paul felt strongly that Mark was not ready for the ministry. But Barnabas felt strongly that he was ready and just needed encouragement. God separated the two men, and because they went their separate ways the cause of Jesus and his kingdom was multiplied.

Sometimes, I think, we hurt ourselves by agonizing too much about separations and disagreements in the church. The issue has to do with our hearts and being faithful before God to do what he has given us to do. We’re not all called to do the same thing. We have different convictions and different perspectives, but God is sovereign.

We are to listen to God and follow him. Sometimes that means we will take different paths than other believers take. That’s okay. Don’t reject those who feel they must follow a different calling – as long as their path is biblical in the essentials. Love them, but follow God’s assignment for you.

By Crawford W. Loritts

Responding:

Am I holding a grudge against someone who doesn’t see things the way I do? How can I love and respect that person?

Following:

Not every disagreement results in damages to the church.

Taken from Our Journal

This article really spoke to me, as I’ve seen disagreements take place, and somehow this is a word from God that all is well. Though sometimes we may not like what may happen, God has a plan for everything. God has an assignment for each and every one of us.