La multiforme gracia de Dios en los desacuerdos - Pastor Luis Méndez

The Multiform Grace of God in Disagreements

Introduction to the Conflict

• The sermon focuses on Acts chapter 15, titled "The Multiform Grace of God in Disagreements."

• Paul proposes revisiting cities where they preached, but a disagreement arises over whether to take John Mark with them.

• This disagreement leads to a significant split between Paul and Barnabas, highlighting human imperfections even among leaders.

Background of the Debate

• Pastor Miguel previously discussed the debate regarding Gentile circumcision for salvation amidst a revival.

• Some Jewish believers insisted that Gentiles must adopt Jewish traditions as part of their conversion, raising questions about the essence of the Gospel.

• The core issue was whether salvation is solely by grace through faith or requires adherence to works, threatening the Gospel's integrity.

Resolution and Response

• Paul and Barnabas traveled to Jerusalem for an official resolution involving apostles and elders.

• After deliberation, they reached an agreement documented in a letter for all churches, which brought joy upon its reading in Antioch (Acts 15:30–35).

• The church rejoiced at this encouraging message; it emphasized that the Gospel is liberating rather than legalistic.

Emergence of New Conflicts

• Following initial resolutions, another conflict arose between Paul and Barnabas regarding John Mark's inclusion on their mission trip.

• This new disagreement was personal rather than doctrinal, showcasing differing methodologies rather than theological disputes.

Lessons from Disagreement

• The conflicts illustrate that even devoted servants can have disagreements; however, God's grace can bring forth positive outcomes from these situations.

• Understanding these conflicts helps us learn about human nature and God's sovereignty amid challenges.

The Missionary Heart of Paul

Paul's Initiative to Visit the Churches

• After some days, Paul proposed to Barnabas to revisit the brothers in cities where they had preached, demonstrating his commitment to pastoral care and church growth.

• Paul is described as a natural evangelist who thrived on preaching Christ in uncharted territories, showcasing his dual role as both an evangelist and a pastor.

• His motivation for the second missionary journey stemmed from a desire not only to plant churches but also to ensure their spiritual nourishment and growth.

The Pastoral Concern of Paul

• Paul's genuine interest in the spiritual well-being of fellow believers reflects his pastoral heart; he wanted to know how they were faring in their faith.

• This call for concern extends beyond pastors and leaders; it emphasizes a Christian love that seeks true engagement with others' spiritual states rather than superficial inquiries.

The Disagreement Between Paul and Barnabas

• A significant disagreement arose when Barnabas wanted to bring John Mark along, while Paul opposed this due to Mark's previous desertion during their mission (Acts 13:13).

• Understanding this conflict requires knowledge about John Mark's background, including his pious upbringing and familial connections within the early church.

Background on John Mark

• John Mark's mother was Mary, known for her hospitality and prayer gatherings, indicating a strong Christian influence in his life (Acts 12:12).

• He was also related to Barnabas, which adds complexity to the dynamics between him and Paul during their missions.

John Mark’s Role in Early Missions

• John Mark participated actively in early missions alongside Barnabas and Saul (Paul), highlighting his initial involvement before facing challenges during their first missionary journey.

• His experience included being part of significant events like the first missionary journey where he assisted them after returning from Jerusalem (Acts 12:25).

The Context of Their First Missionary Journey

• During this journey, tensions arose leading up to John's departure from them at Pamphylia. Understanding these circumstances is crucial for grasping why Paul felt strongly against taking him again.

• Acts 13 details how they were sent out by the Holy Spirit after prayer and fasting, marking an important moment in early church history that set the stage for future missions.

Missionary Journey and Challenges

Encounter with the Magician

• After traveling through the island, Paul and Barnabas encountered a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus, who was with the intelligent proconsul Sergius Paulus, eager to hear God's word.

• The magician Elymas opposed them, attempting to turn the proconsul away from faith as God began opening doors during this missionary journey.

Paul's Confrontation

• Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, confronted Elymas directly, calling him a son of deceit and fraud, declaring that he would be blind for a time as a sign of God's power.

• Following this event, the proconsul was amazed at the teaching of the Lord after witnessing Elymas's blindness.

Departure from Cyprus

• As they continued their journey, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia; however, John Mark left them to return to Jerusalem.

• The author Luke speculates on John's departure being due to his youth or lack of readiness for upcoming challenges in their mission.

Disagreement Over John Mark

• A significant disagreement arose between Paul and Barnabas regarding whether to take John Mark on their second journey. Paul felt it unwise due to Mark's previous desertion.

• This disagreement highlighted differing perspectives: Barnabas saw potential in Mark while Paul viewed him as an obstacle.

Separation of Missionaries

• Their conflict escalated so much that they parted ways; Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus while Paul chose Silas for his journey.

• This separation illustrates how differing views on readiness and responsibility can impact missionary work significantly.

The Second Missionary Journey of Paul

Overview of the Journey

• The second missionary journey of Apostle Paul was significant as it redirected him and his companion, Pablo Isla, to Greece, where they spread the Gospel in Europe.

• During this journey, a young man named Timothy was found and became one of the most faithful servants of the Gospel. Additionally, a businesswoman named Lydia converted and supported the promotion of the Gospel.

Key Relationships and Reconciliation

• There was a notable disagreement between Paul and Barnabas; however, it is suggested that Paul received more official support for his mission due to being entrusted by fellow believers.

• This disagreement initially seemed like an obstacle but ultimately served God's purpose in extending His kingdom despite human flaws.

Evidence of Reconciliation

• Years later, Paul and Barnabas reconciled as evidenced in Galatians 2 when they returned to Jerusalem together with Titus after 14 years.

• Their personal differences did not diminish their mutual respect or admiration for each other. Similarly, reconciliation occurred between Paul and John Mark.

Impact on Ministry

• In Colossians 4:10, Paul mentions Mark positively, indicating he had become a source of comfort for him.

• By 2 Timothy 4:11, Paul requests Timothy to bring Mark along because he finds him useful for ministry.

Growth and Legacy

• John Mark grew significantly in his role within the church; Peter refers to him as "my son" in 1 Peter 5:13.

• Most scholars agree that John Mark authored the Gospel according to Mark, showcasing how weaknesses do not hinder God's sovereign plans.

Lessons from Disagreement

Practical Lessons Learned

• Five practical lessons can be drawn from Paul's disagreements:

• We should cultivate a spirit similar to Barnabas's within our communities—balancing goal orientation with people development.

• It’s essential to support those who are weak and practice patience with everyone.

Encouragement through Grace

• Barnabas exemplified grace by giving second chances; he encouraged new believers during times of spiritual awakening (Acts 11).

• When Saul (Paul), previously a persecutor of Christians, sought acceptance among disciples but faced skepticism, Barnabas advocated for him before the apostles (Acts 9:26).

This structured approach highlights key moments from Paul's second missionary journey while emphasizing themes such as reconciliation and encouragement within Christian communities.

Second Chances and Spiritual Growth

The Concept of Second Chances

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of offering second chances, drawing parallels between human behavior and divine mercy as depicted in the Bible.

• The story of Jonah is highlighted, illustrating how God provided him a second chance after his initial disobedience to go to Nineveh.

• Peter's denial of Jesus is discussed, showcasing that despite his failures, he was given another opportunity for redemption.

Biblical Examples of Redemption

• The narrative recounts Peter's three denials of Jesus and the emotional impact it had on him when he realized his actions.

• After Jesus' resurrection, an angel specifically instructs to inform Peter about His return, signifying God's grace towards him.

• This moment underscores that even after failure, individuals can be called back into purpose and ministry.

Lessons from Disagreements in Ministry

• The speaker notes that disagreements should not hinder service; both Paul and Barnabas continued their work despite personal differences.

• Spiritual maturity involves recognizing that differences can exist among committed individuals without affecting their mission.

Perseverance in Service

• Emphasizing resilience, the speaker encourages never giving up on serving God despite past failures or setbacks.

• Learning from mistakes is crucial; one should view failures as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to quit.

Addressing Resentment

• The discussion shifts to the importance of combating resentment stemming from disagreements; unresolved feelings can complicate relationships.

• Paul’s later acknowledgment of Mark’s usefulness illustrates forgiveness and moving beyond past grievances.

Celebrating the Gift of Forgiveness

The Importance of Forgiveness

• Emphasizes that we celebrate the most precious gift, which is Jesus, and highlights the need to learn forgiveness during challenging times.

• Encourages seeking reconciliation and reflecting on strained friendships and relationships within families and churches; forgiveness is presented as a healing process.

• States that forgiving others liberates us from hatred and bitterness, marking it as a significant step towards personal freedom.

The Value of Endings Over Beginnings

• Discusses how the conclusion of events can be more meaningful than their beginnings, referencing biblical scripture (Ecclesiastes 7:8).

• Highlights that success should be measured by how we finish rather than how we start; even great servants are imperfect.

Lessons from Human Imperfection

• Reflects on human weaknesses leading to real difficulties in glorifying God but reassures that divine purposes will prevail despite our flaws.

• Concludes with an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and grace throughout history, emphasizing His glory across generations.