New Testament
Acts 15:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, Paul is hesitant to take John Mark on their next journey.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
But Paul did not think it wise to take him along, since he had departed from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work.
But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Paul is hesitant to take John Mark on their next journey. This decision stems from a previous experience where John Mark left them during an important mission in Pamphylia. Paul feels that John Mark's earlier departure shows a lack of commitment, which makes him unfit for the demanding work ahead. This moment highlights the importance of reliability and trust in teamwork. Paul’s choice reflects a desire to ensure that their mission is successful and that everyone involved is fully dedicated. It also illustrates how past actions can influence future decisions, especially in leadership roles. This situation serves as a reminder that while second chances are valuable, they must be balanced with the need for accountability and dependability. Ultimately, this decision leads to a significant split between Paul and Barnabas, showing that even good intentions can lead to difficult choices in relationships and ministry. The story encourages us to consider how we evaluate others based on their past actions and how we can support growth and commitment in our teams.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 15:38 to your life
When working with others, consider their past actions and how they align with your goals. It's important to balance giving second chances with the need for reliability. Reflect on how you can support others in becoming more dependable in their commitments. Trust is built over time, and accountability is key to successful teamwork. Be mindful of your own reliability as well, as it impacts those around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 15:38 mean?
Acts 15:38 describes Paul's decision not to take John Mark on their next missionary journey due to John Mark's previous departure during an earlier mission. This highlights Paul's concern for reliability and commitment in their work.
What themes are present in Acts 15:38?
Acts 15:38 touches on themes such as teamwork, commitment, leadership, trust, and the balance between giving second chances and ensuring accountability.
What can we learn from Acts 15:38 about teamwork?
Acts 15:38 teaches that reliability is crucial in teamwork. It emphasizes the need to consider past actions when evaluating someone's readiness to contribute to a mission.

The Book of Acts
Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias
Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.
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