Acts 15:37
And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.
Original Language Analysis
Βαρναβᾶς
Barnabas
G921
Βαρναβᾶς
Barnabas
Strong's:
G921
Word #:
1 of 9
son of nabas (i.e., prophecy); barnabas, an israelite
ἐβούλεύσατο
determined
G1011
ἐβούλεύσατο
determined
Strong's:
G1011
Word #:
3 of 9
to advise, i.e., (reflexively) deliberate, or (by implication) resolve
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
John Mark had accompanied Paul and Barnabas on the first journey but abandoned them in Pamphylia (Acts 13:13). Barnabas, Mark's cousin (Col. 4:10), wanted to give him a second chance.
Questions for Reflection
- How should we respond to those who have failed in ministry?
- What role does grace play in restoring fallen Christians?
- When should we give second chances versus maintain standards?
Analysis & Commentary
Barnabas 'determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.' The word 'determined' (Greek 'bouleuō') indicates firm intention. Barnabas saw potential in Mark despite his earlier failure. This grace-oriented approach would ultimately be vindicated - Mark later became useful to Paul (2 Tim. 4:11).