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The two men were bound together by early associations, perhaps had been schoolmates at Tarsus. When Paul came to Jerusalem, Barnabas was the first to trust and welcome him. They were both devoted to the work among the Gentiles, and had shared the dangers and the glories of the first missionary tour. This companionship ended with the controversy about Mark. However unfortunate, it was not strange. Barnabas had reason for his confidence, Paul for his distrust. Both were right, both were wrong. They could agree only to disagree; and the second missionary tour was begun in unhappiness. Many familiar suggestions arise from this scene.

I. VERY GOOD MEN MAY HAVE FAULTS. These two had confessed at Lystra that they were men of like passions with us, but now each seems to have forgotten that; neither will make allowance for the other. We cannot expect always to have our own way, even when we are in the right. Were it certain that oar opponent is wholly in the wrong, we have no right to forget that, notwithstanding this error, he may be a good man. Trust his proved character. Do not lightly imperil a fellowship which has grown up in kindly helpfulness. A few hot words may undo the love of years, as a few blows of the axe cuts down the oak of a century's growth. The Master had only faulty disciples, but He never lost one real friend. What would have become of them, of us, did He dwell upon real faults as much as upon possible virtues?

II. PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS AND SURROUNDINGS AFFECT THE JUDGMENT. Barnabas was Mark's uncle; he knew him better than Paul could, and loved him better. The trusting spirit which had welcomed the newly-converted persecutor now received the repentant backslider; yet this charity of itself did not prove the young man was deserving of such a trust. Charitableness and affection become leniency, putting unfit men into responsible positions. Courage and self-denial stiffen into severity in judging weaker brethren.

III. ONE SIN BRINGS OTHER SINS AND MANY SORROWS. Mark's weak shrinking shamed himself, dishonoured his Lord, and betrayed these true yoke-fellows into a pitiable strife.

IV. CHRIST USES IMPERFECT LABOURERS. He has no other. God must make the folly and wrath of man to praise Him, since folly and wrath appear even in true disciples.

V. TRUE CHRISTIANS WILL NOT REMAIN AT VARIANCE. How glad we are for that message from Paul to Timothy, "Take Mark and bring him with thee, for he is profitable to me for the ministry"; and for the commendatory mention of Barnabas ten years later, in writing to the Corinthians.

(Sermons by the Monday Club.)

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KJV: And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.

WEB: Barnabas planned to take John, who was called Mark, with them also.