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The Acts of the Apostles
in the power of His might. Thus he may put to confusion the hosts of
Satan and may triumph in the name of the Lord.
Paul and his company continued their journey, going to Perga, in
Pamphylia. Their way was toilsome; they encountered hardships and
privations, and were beset with dangers on every side. In the towns and
cities through which they passed, and along the lonely highways, they
were surrounded by dangers seen and unseen. But Paul and Barnabas
had learned to trust God’s power to deliver. Their hearts were filled
with fervent love for perishing souls. As faithful shepherds in search of
the lost sheep, they gave no thought to their own ease and convenience.
Forgetful of self, they faltered not when weary, hungry, and cold. They
had in view but one object—the salvation of those who had wandered
far from the fold.
It was here that Mark, overwhelmed with fear and discouragement,
wavered for a time in his purpose to give himself wholeheartedly to
the Lord’s work. Unused to hardships, he was disheartened by the
perils and privations of the way. He had labored with success under
favorable circumstances; but now, amidst the opposition and perils
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that so often beset the pioneer worker, he failed to endure hardness
as a good soldier of the cross. He had yet to learn to face danger and
persecution and adversity with a brave heart. As the apostles advanced,
and still greater difficulties were apprehended, Mark was intimidated
and, losing all courage, refused to go farther and returned to Jerusalem.
This desertion caused Paul to judge Mark unfavorably, and even
severely, for a time. Barnabas, on the other hand, was inclined to
excuse him because of his inexperience. He felt anxious that Mark
should not abandon the ministry, for he saw in him qualifications
that would fit him to be a useful worker for Christ. In after years his
solicitude in Mark’s behalf was richly rewarded, for the young man
gave himself unreservedly to the Lord and to the work of proclaiming
the gospel message in difficult fields. Under the blessing of God, and
the wise training of Barnabas, he developed into a valuable worker.
Paul was afterward reconciled to Mark and received him as a fellow
laborer. He also recommended him to the Colossians as one who was
a fellow worker “unto the kingdom of God,” and “a comfort unto me.”
Colossians 4:11
. Again, not long before his own death, he spoke of
Mark as “profitable” to him “for the ministry.”
2 Timothy 4:11
.