knowledge, or without their consent: see ch. 13:13. Neither would yield, therefore there was no
remedy but they must part. We see that the best of men are but men, subject to like passions as we
are. Perhaps there were faults on both sides, as usual in such contentions. Christ's example alone,
is a copy without a blot. Yet we are not to think it strange, if there are differences among wise and
good men. It will be so while we are in this imperfect state; we shall never be all of one mind till
we come to heaven. But what mischief the remainders of pride and passion which are found even
in good men, do in the world, and do in the church! Many who dwelt at Antioch, who had heard
but little of the devotedness and piety of Paul and Barnabas, heard of their dispute and separation;
and thus it will be with ourselves, if we give way to contention. Believers must be constant in
prayer, that they may never be led by the allowance of unholy tempers, to hurt the cause they really
desire to serve. Paul speaks with esteem and affection both of Barnabas and Mark, in his epistles,
written after this event. May all who profess thy name, O loving Saviour, be thoroughly reconciled
by that love derived from thee which is not easily provoked, and which soon forgets and buries
injuries.
Chapter 16
Chapter Outline
Paul takes Timothy to be his assistant. (1–5)
Paul proceeds to Macedonia, The conversion (6–15)
of Lydia.
An evil spirit cast out, Paul and Silas (16–24)
scourged and imprisoned.
The conversion of the jailer at Philippi. (25–34)
Paul and Silas released. (35–40)Verses 1–5
Well may the church look for much service from youthful ministers who set out in the same
spirit as Timothy. But when men will submit in nothing, and oblige in nothing, the first elements
of the Christian temper seem to be wanting; and there is great reason to believe that the doctrines
and precepts of the gospel will not be successfully taught. The design of the decree being to set
aside the ceremonial law, and its carnal ordinances, believers were confirmed in the Christian faith,
because it set up a spiritual way of serving God, as suited to the nature both of God and man. Thus
the church increased in numbers daily.
Verses 6–15
The removals of ministers, and the dispensing the means of grace by them, are in particular
under Divine conduct and direction. We must follow Providence: and whatever we seek to do, if