A sharp disagreement.

Acts 15:36-41, And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.

Even between these brothers, there was a sharp disagreement about taking John Mark. He had deserted them in the previous journey and Paul would not agree to take him again! Perhaps this aided in the spread of the good news, for they were able to go in different directions? Later we know that Paul recognized John Mark and accepted him, but the most important thing is that the good news continued to go out even when there was disagreement.

Lord, help us in disagreements to keep the focus on You and Your good news, to disagree without being disagreeable!

ESV Lectionary