Reading this week's scripture, I honestly feel sadder than I did when I read the stories of the stones that were thrown and the prison doors shut on the people of God earlier in Acts.
Yes, it was scary in ways to read through all of the persecution believers went through, but it was somewhat a badge of honor and also expected treatment from the world.  The Bible promises us such hard times will be experienced. However, reading the end of chapter 15 saddens me more than the earlier text scares me.  This week's message is a message of needless failure on the part of unified brothers who were called to the same mission. Midway in our book is when the people of God picked up stones and threw them at each other.

Scripture does not give us all the information to what led to Paul and Barnabas separating, but the text does give us enough for the mind to connect some dots. Paul was the greatest of the apostles and Barnabas we are told was a very gifted man when it came to teaching and engaging the people.  We see that the ministry between both of the men was extremely effective and strong when they were together!  This is why their failure to stay united for the betterment of all is so sad and a failure to learn from today. I believe this is why this part of the story is given to us.

The Bible never tells us that the calling to spread the Good News and make disciples would be easy.  The scriptures never tell us that personalities won't clash or that hard conversations won't occur.  Truth is that ministry is hard inside and outside the church walls. It will be challenging until Jesus returns.  The Bible is clear on that. The Bible is also clear that, if possible, stay united and choose peace with other believers for the betterment of others and for the mission at hand.  Paul tells us in Romans,

Maybe Paul was speaking out of a place filled with newfound wisdom, insight, and past failure.  I wonder if both men, having the opportunity to go back, would have done things differently?  Chapter 15 is the last we hear of Barnabas as most believe that he remained faithful but was killed in Cyprus.  Cyprus was where he chose to go after leaving Paul. 
Let us all humble ourselves, seek peace, and desire unity.  Let us not rage war over preferences and pride. Let us not throw stones at each other and press toward the greater goal of making much of the name of Jesus.

Stay faithful church.  

 Read Acts 4:36, Acts 9:23-30, and Acts 11:19-26 this week in preparation for Sunday's message.  These are all verses reminding us of the character of Barnabas.