Acts 15:38 (KJV)

What does Acts 15:38 mean?

Acts 15:38 says that Paul did not think it was a good idea to take John Mark with them on their missionary journey, because John Mark had previously left them in Pamphylia and did not continue with them in their work. Paul’s decision is based on John Mark’s earlier departure, which Paul saw as abandoning the mission.

In this verse, the situation is a disagreement between Paul and Barnabas about whether to bring John Mark along as they plan another journey to visit the churches they had started. Paul is speaking to Barnabas, and his concern is about reliability and commitment to the work. This moment sets the stage for a sharp disagreement and a split between Paul and Barnabas, showing the real human challenges faced by early Christian leaders.

The Greek behind Acts 15:38

• The word "thought not good" comes from the Greek word κρίνω (krinō, here tagged as G515), which often means "to judge" or "to consider." In this context, it suggests that Paul made a careful judgment, not just a casual opinion.
• The phrase "departed from them" uses the Greek word ἀφίστημι (aphistēmi, tagged as G868), which means "to withdraw" or "to desert." This word can carry a strong sense of leaving someone behind, not just stepping away temporarily.
• The word for "work" is ἔργον (ergon, G2041), which refers to the mission or labor they were doing. Paul saw their journey as serious work, not just travel or companionship.

Why Acts 15:38 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul’s concern was not personal dislike, but a judgment about John Mark’s previous reliability in ministry work.
• Acts 15:38 highlights the seriousness with which Paul viewed the mission, emphasizing that commitment and perseverance were essential qualities for those involved.
• This disagreement leads to a significant turning point in Acts, resulting in Paul and Barnabas going separate ways, which ultimately spreads their missionary efforts even further.