Conflict is a fact of life in this fallen world. We know it. We don’t like it. We try and avoid it. We work hard to be at peace with everyone. But conflict will happen if we are around other humans! Acts 15:36-41 gives us a window into a conflict between two of the most godly Christians in history. We get to see not only how these two men are human like us, but we also see how God works redeeming their conflict for His good.

Paul and Barnabas are not superheroes after all. They disagree on whether John Mark should come with them on their next missionary journey. They don’t resolve their conflict. They separate from each other and go their own way. Apart from God, most likely they would never resolve this conflict. But with God, there is hope.

God redeemed this situation in a way that gives us hope in our conflicts. First, because of the unresolved separation, God used Paul and Barnabas to go in different directions for ministry. There were now two new missionary journeys. Second, God redeemed the separation by using John Mark in a different way than Paul’s missionary companion. John Mark teamed with Peter to write the Gospel of Mark. And later in Paul’s life, he sought out John Mark saying he was useful to his ministry. Finally, God redeems this conflict in giving us hope. Even if we do not seek conflict out, it happens. And when it does, God gives us hope not only to reconcile, but that He will use our conflict and sin for His glory.

This Sunday I will look at this passage in parallel with a similar ministry conflict in my life. What was painful and discouraging then, God has truly used for good now in my life. Come share with me in the hope of God this Sunday!

Please take note of ways to gather for Sunday Service at The Rock:

1) We are meeting outside at Manhattan Beach Pre-School for our Sunday Service at 3:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, masks and Bibles! For a complete copy of our guidelines for re-opening CLICK HERE.

2) We will also be live on Facebook Live (NOT ZOOM). If you don’t feel comfortable joining us in person, are feeling sick, or have been exposed to someone who is sick stay connected through this live-stream - CLICK HERE at 3:30 Sunday afternoon.

3) Finally we will provide a video link to the sermon. I will send out an email the week following with the sermon link attached.

“And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other.” - Acts 15:39a


- Pastor Curt

Theological Word of The Week:

Raised in Power

A phrase describing our future resurrection bodies, which will exhibit the fullness of strength and power that God intended human beings to have in their bodies when he created them.

Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology

Upcoming Events

Children's Ministry

Children can join Cameron every Sunday for Bible time during the service. They will go through the Bible story by story.

Sermon Topic - April 18

Acts: A Holy Spirit Inspired Legacy

Acts 15:36-41

“The Unthinkable Happened”

2020 Final