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Scripture
Acts 15:39-40 (NIV)
39 They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus,
40 but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.

Observation
When is it OK for believers to have serious disagreements? How are we supposed to resolve them? Thanks to Dr. Luke, Paul and Barnabas have their personal confrontation recorded for all time. The Greek word used to describe their conflict (paoxysmos) tells us that this was no mere difference of opinion. These guys were seriously at odds. In the end there was no way to continue journeying together in fellowship. It would have been the source of constant tension, and would have impacted their mission. Rather than impede the work of God they had been given, they chose to create two teams and mulitply efforts. This was a win-win. They each continued in a way that allowed them to focus on the mission, and they also preserved their relationship. The kingdom won two, as the world got the benefit of two powerful mission teams instead of one.

Disagreement in the body is expected. What is important is how we handle it. If we handle it in a God honoring way, then relationships are preserved, and God's kingdom is honored. When we stay focused on ourselves, our rights, our preferences, then damage occurs. Parting ways is a viable option. Sometimes it is better for disagreeing parties to decide not to walk along the path together anymore. If it is done well the results can actually multiply the kingdom instead of divide it. The question that must constantly be asked is... is the kingdom of God being helped or hurt by how we are handling this disagreement?

Application
The direction God is sending me in my life will undoubtedly place me in situations where conflicts like this will occur. This is a great lesson for me to always remember as a model for how disagreements should be handled. Do all possible to resolve and remain reconciled, but if not be willing to part ways. That may mean asking people to leave, or asking God if He wants me to be the one to remove myself from the situation. If both parties make acting in a way that pleases God a priority, then the relationship should be preserved, and God will be glorified through how we treat each other.

Prayer
Lord, help me to always handle disagreements the way Paul and Barnabas did, in a way that glorifies you and does everything possible to preserve relationships. May people be pointed to you in how I respond in these circumstances.