Study #13

Chapter 15:36-16:15

Recap

In our previous study, we witnessed how the disciples discerned the best way forward when disputes arose; they fasted, prayed, reasoned with scripture and sought the wisdom of the spirit. They chose what seemed good to the Holy Spirit and the leaders of the church. Their goal was not to add extra rules that would be burdensome, though they still did provide some requirements for holy living. 

Introduction

In our reading today, after having witnessed unity in the face of adversity, we will see the first major schism in the church, as Paul and Barnabas rupture because of a sharp disagreement. As we explore this story, we will also move beyond Acts and look at where we see part of this story resolved across the pages of scripture. 

We will also explore the many other companions that Paul has in his missionary journey: Timothy, Silas, Luke and Lydia. Though one relationship falls apart, new relationships are formed that help Paul continue in the work he has been called to.

Read Acts 15:36-16:15

(Remember - First read out loud, either one person reads the whole thing, or separate it by verses. After you read through the passage out loud, take a little bit of time to re-read it individually, noting and marking verses, words or phrases that stand out in the story.) 

Three Quick Questions: 

1. Is there anything that stands out to you as we read through the passage? 

2. Did you learn anything new or surprising about Jesus or God’s character? 

3. Are there any other stories or passages in the Bible that Luke may be subtly referencing? Why is Luke connecting this story to that passage? 

Diving Deeper

1. Beginning in 15:35, we read of a dispute that breaks out between Paul and Barnabas. The disagreement was about whether Mark (John Mark) should be able to come with them on the next leg of the missionary journey.
   
    In Acts 13:13, it is mentioned that John (John Mark) left them to return to Jerusalem. It would seem that because of this action, Paul does not trust Mark, but Barnabas wants to take another chance on him. These competing attitudes led to a sharp disagreement, and two great missionaries sadly parted company.
   
   This is the last time we hear of Barnabas in Acts, and he is only briefly mentioned later in Scripture (1 Corinthians 9:6, Galatians 2:1, Colossians 4:10). We don’t know what happened to Barnabas after this and church tradition posits that he died as a martyr a few years later. (The church father Tertullian seems to believe that Barnabas was also the author of the letter to the Hebrews, though there is no clear evidence for this.)
   Why do you think Luke includes this story of relational fallout in his account of the early church?
   
   

2. Though Barnabas’ story seems to have a tragic end, we get glimpses of a reconciled relationship between Paul and Mark throughout Paul’s letters see Colossians 4:10, 2 Timothy 4:11 & Philemon 1:24). The very Mark that Paul had rejected is spoken of with love and affection, a brother and co-labourer. Tradition also tells that it is this very same Mark who wrote the Gospel account now in our scriptures.
   What do we learn about reconciliation through John Mark’s story?
   Has there been anyone in your life or faith journey who has been like Mark to you?
   

3. After the story of Paul and Barnabas’ fallout, Luke turns his attention to several other ministry partners of Paul - Silas, Timothy, and Lydia (and technically even Luke, as the book takes on a first-person plural perspective). From within these partnerships, we continue to see the faith spread and grow.
   
   The inclusion of Timothy’s story is interesting because it highlights that Paul had Timothy circumcised, even though in the previous chapters the apostles had discerned that circumcision was not required.
   Why do you think Paul decided to circumcise Timothy, given the conclusions of the Jerusalem Council?
   

4. In verses 6-10, we read of an interruption and a directive to Paul’s mission work.
   First, in verse 6, Paul and his companions travel throughout Prygia and Galtia, because they were “kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.” Second, Paul receives a vision calling him to Macedonia.
   God guides by closing one door and by making a different way clear.
   Do you feel God has ever guided you by “closing a door,” or by making a way clear?
   What should we do when the way forward does not seem clear?
   

5. After arriving in Philippi, Paul and his companions encounter Lydia, a worshipper of God and a dealer in purple cloth (this is most likely an indication of wealth, as purple cloth was usually expensive). She is gathering with other women at the river, praying. (This is most likely because there were not enough Jewish men to establish a synagogue in Philippi; at the time, a synagogue required a minimum of 10 men.)
   What is unique about Lydia’s conversion, and what might be important for us today as we read this story?
   

6. After telling us about a major rupture in the church, Luke takes time to show the amazing ways that the Gospel continues to spread and expand beyond its borders. Why do you think Luke does this and what implications does this have for us today?
   

   Benediction 

Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.