What to do about John Mark

What a reminder this is that we are dealing with the God of the Second Chance! Some may have muffed things badly in a ministry, or failed in some area of life. Oftentimes in the world, no second chance is offered, but the God of grace offers a second and even a third and fourth chance.  (Stedman/Col 4:10)

I have always found comfort in the story of Paul and Barnabus and their parting of the ways because of John Mark.  I think both had legitimate reasons for their positions, there was not a right and wrong answer – God used both.

Paul didn’t want to take a chance that John Mark would bail on him again.  He didn’t trust him.  When someone has betrayed you – while you can forgive them – it is not always wise to put yourself in a position where they are apt to betray you again.  Paul was no stranger to adversity and needed someone he could count on.

Barnabus, on the other hand, wants to give John Mark a second chance (he is after all a son of encouragement).  He probably saw something in John Mark that was worth developing.  He could just as easily have been betrayed but was willing to risk it.  In the end it appears John Mark rose to the occasion.  And finally he was reconciled with Paul and was even given his approval.

I see value in both and more importantly God was able to use both for His purposes.  Often times I’ve seen Christians part company for all kinds of reasons.  I just believe that God can use these divisions for His own purposes.  And sometimes these divisions are necessary because we can become too comfortable and set in our ways.

I think it’s important to remember that ultimately God is in charge.  As long as we are seeking Him and walking towards Him, we will also be drawing closer to one another and eventually our divisions will cease. Hard to imagine at times, but I believe it’s true.