JOHN MARK’S CHILDREN by C. A. Washburn

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 26, 1877

“JOHN MARK’S CHILDREN.”

By C. A. Washburn

I was much interested in an article under this heading by Eld. D. M. Canright, in Review, Vol. 50, No. 2. I have often thought of this “sharp contention” between Paul and Barnabas recorded in Acts 15: 36-40, and have heard people refer to it for proof that good folks, even, could not expect to get along without contentions and divisions. But it is evident, as shown in the article above mentioned, that this record was made to teach quite a different lesson, namely, that we should not be easily driven from the work of God, but should endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. 2 Tim. 2: 3.

But shall we not hope that those who have been in fault (as John Mark was) may reform? Bro. C. says Paul “would have nothing more to do with him.” But some years after this, Paul said to Timothy, “Take Mark, and bring him with thee; for he is profitable to me for the ministry.” 2 Tim. 4: 11. Now, if John Mark did so reform as to be profitable to the ministry, may we not hope that his children will follow this part of their ancestor’s example, and reform also. C. A. Washburn.