We see that the best of men are but men, subject to like passions as we are. Neither would yield, therefore there was no remedy but they must part. Paul did not think him worthy of the honour, nor fit for the service, who had departed from them without their knowledge, or without their consent: see 13.

We should suspect ourselves of being partial, and guard against this in putting our relations forward. Barnabas wished his nephew John Mark to go with them. Here we have a private quarrel between two ministers, no less than Paul and Barnabas, yet made to end well. Where many labour in the word and doctrine, yet there may be opportunity for us: the zeal and usefulness of others should stir us up, not lay us asleep.

All this was consolation for which they blessed God. It was a comfort to hear that carnal ordinances were no longer imposed on them, which perplexed the conscience, but could not purify or pacify it and that those who troubled their minds were silenced, so that the peace of the church was restored, and that which threatened division was removed.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 15:35-40 Commentary on Acts 15:22-35īeing warranted to declare themselves directed by the immediate influence of the Holy Ghost, the apostles and disciples were assured that it seemed good unto God the Holy Spirit, as well as to them, to lay upon the converts no other burden than the things before mentioned, which were necessary, either on their own account, or from present circumstances.

Renaine mk ii