We next read that, "some days after, Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do." This was a very good thought: another visit from the Apostles would be a great comfort to the Christians of Iconium, Lystra, Derbe, and other places; and especially to the elders of those Churches, who would be glad to have their advice on many subjects. St. Barnabas was very willing to go; but now a dispute arose, which caused the separation of these two Apostles; for "Barnabas determined to take with them Mark," his nephew; "but Paul thought not good to take with them" one who had left them on their first journey as soon as they landed in Pamphylia; "and went not with them to the work," of preaching to the Gentiles in Asia Minor. Differences of opinion will arise amongst the best of men, and so far there was nothing wrong in the conduct of the Apostles: but, alas! instead of seeking counsel from God, and settling the matter peaceably, Scripture tells us that "the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other." It is sad to hear of these two holy men parting from each other in anger; but it is a warning to us to keep a strict watch over all _our_ words, that we may not fall into that strife, which is so displeasing in the eyes of God. Let us always remember that no dispute or quarrel, can be carried on unless both parties give way to sinful feelings. Differences must arise; and even if we feel it our duty not to give up our own design, we can, by gentleness, forbearance, and self-denial, prevent any "sharp contention," even though we may thus be obliged to offend our adversary. Where no principle of right is concerned, we should give up our own wishes for the sake of "living peaceably with all men," as the Gospel enjoins us to do. St. Paul was afraid to trust St. Mark: he had failed once; and perhaps the Apostle was too stern in his condemnation of his fault, and too unwilling to believe in his repentance. St. Barnabas, on the other hand, from his nearer connexion with St. Mark, felt that he might now be trusted; and he was probably angry with St. Paul for not also believing this. A little calm and quiet talk might perhaps have settled the matter; or, at any rate, might have led to an amicable separation, instead of "a sharp contention," which parted them asunder. However it was, this unhappy dispute was overruled for the good of the Church; because by going separately, these two zealous Apostles could visit many more places than they could have done, had they continued to journey together. We must remember also, that though these Apostles were for the moment angry with each other, these feelings did not last; and, some years afterwards, we find St. Mark the companion of St. Paul.