God’s word is replete with practical instruction (2 Tim. 3: 16, 17). This instruction is observed in many and sundry settings, direct teaching, example, and various didactic circumstances. The teaching and example observed in Acts 15: 36 through 39 is profitable.

“36: And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. 37: And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark…”

“38: But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. 39: And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; 40: And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God” (Acts 15: 36-40).

In order to be Jesus' disciples and to be made free of the bondage of sin, we must continue in Jesus' "word" (John 8: 31, 32). Jesus' words are "spirit and life" (John 6: 63). The Spirit further revealed all truth through the apostles and others in the First Century through whom he spoke (John 14; 26, 16: 13, cp. I Cor. 14: 37). Furthermore, they did not "lie" (Rom. 9: 1). As a result, we are to abide in "the doctrine of Christ" and failure to do so results in having neither the Father or the Son (2 John 9-11).

John Mark later became “profitable” (2 Tim. 4: 11). Circumstances can change; hence, an adjustment in how we view a matter is required.

1.“Repent…and pray God” (Acts 8: 22, cp. 2: 37, 38). 2. Spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12, 14) compared to I Corinthians 13: 8-10, cp. 2 Tim. 2: “Purge out” compared to “forgive him” (I Cor. 5: 7/2 Cor. 2: 7).