Christians are to walk in the Spirit. See Galatians 6:16. It is a daily thing. See Romans 8:4-9.

1 – A disagreement (vs. 36-39)

Paul and Barnabas have a disagreement over John Mark. He had deserted them. See Acts 13:13. It is a sharp verbal disagreement (vs. 39). It was a violent emotional reaction. They were both determined. Barnabas and John Mark were cousins. Even though the Spirit is leading us, we can still face conflict. The Bible includes times when people fail or fall out. Disagreements do not mean you are not being led by the Spirit of God. Paul had a point. The Gospel was important and you need to be faithful to the work. We have no idea why John Mark deserted. Barnabas had a point. God is a God of a second chance. Paul himself had used to persecute the Church. Who was right? They were both right. It can depend on whether you are goal or people oriented. We need both kinds of people.

2 – The decision (vs. 15:39-16:10)

Where Satan rules, God overrules. Satan no doubt thought that he could use it. Instead of two people going out, we have four. Instead of one group there were two. God can take negative situations and change them into something positive.

– We are created to serve God. – We are saved to serve God. Ask yourself the question, “How can I serve God?” – We are called to serve God. Paul is called to serve God in a different way. – We are commanded to serve God. God will carry you through the difficult times if you allow yourself to be led by the Holy Spirit.

• There will be times of conflict. Just keep on walking in the Spirit. .
• There will be times of confusion. The Holy Spirit prevented them from going to Asia and elsewhere. They had no idea why they were stopped. Have there ever been times when you don’t know what God is doing in your life? God does not explain everything in our lives. When you don’t understand, don’t doubt the goodness of God. Wait on the Lord. He will strengthen our hearts. It is very difficult. It will teach us patience if we have to wait. Always rebuke the Devil. It is when you are walking against the Devil that you have to rebuke him. If you are walking in agreement you won’t have to rebuke him. You need to totally immerse yourself in the Word of God. You can hang onto the promises of God in the hard times.
• There will be times of confrontation (16:9) – Sometimes the Holy Spirit will confront you and make it clear to you what He wants you to do.

1. We are created to serve God.
2. We are saved to serve God. Ask yourself the question, “How can I serve God?”
3. We are called to serve God. Paul is called to serve God in a different way.
4. We are commanded to serve God.

God will carry you through the difficult times if you allow yourself to be led by the Holy Spirit.

Categories: Acts