Re: Think 12-14-08 (part 2)
Written on December 16, 2008 by Matt
Today we will continue the conversation we began yesterday looking at the stories behind those Paul mentions at the end of his letter to the Colossians. Yesterday we considered Tychicus and Onesimus and today we turn attention to Mark and Barnabas.
The Mark referred to in this letter is the same “John Mark” that defected from Paul and Barnabas during their first missionary journey. He was source of a quite heated conflict between Paul and Barnabas that lead to their going seperate ways in Acts 15. Yet, under the careful guidance of Barnabas, Mark redeemed his reputation so that he and the apostle are again on friendly terms. Mark is with Paul in his imprisonment and mentioned again in Philemon as Paul’s fellow worker. In 2 Timothy 4:11 in a clear display of reconciliation he is commended as a faithful worker In addition to this, he is credited popularly with the writing of the Gospel of Mark as well.
John Mark stands as an incredible example of one who wouldn’t let failure be the end of his story. Look at the Power of God in his life, in not only reconciling him with Paul, but also in restoring him to ministry.
To often the Christian Army is known for being one that shoots its wounded when instead it should be remembered as one who lifts up those who are downtrodden and restores them to meaningful life and ministry. This is exactly what happend with John Mark.
Barnabas is the type of man everyone would want as a best friend. He is the always faithful servant; rock solid and spiritually steady. We first read of him in Acts 4 when he sells a field he owns and brings the money to the feet of the apostles. His name means “Son of Encouragement” and this title is lived out in his building up and restoration of John Mark and reconciliation garnered between he and Paul.
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