36 Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”
In Acts 15:36-41, a conflict breaks out between Paul and Barnabas. The contention was so sharp that the team broke fellowship, never to work together again. This passage launches the second missionary journey of Paul and Silas.
15:36
Then after some days
This phrase signals a new section of the book of Acts–the second missionary journey. Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch for an extended period before launching a new mission.
Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”
Paul suggested to Barnabas that they go on a second missionary journey to disciple their converts on the first journey.
PRINCIPLE:
The importance of follow-up discipleship is crucial for the advancement of the church.
APPLICATION:
Paul’s desire was to disciple converts on his previous journey. Conversion is not a sufficient or complete ministry. Development of the believer’s maturity is also of crucial importance (Acts 20:31; Eph 4:12-13; Co 1:28).
