Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

Who was Barnabas in the Bible?

Barnabas was an early Christian leader, born Joseph, who was nicknamed "Son of Encouragement" for his supportive nature. He was a Levite from Cyprus who generously sold a field to support the early congregation in Jerusalem. Barnabas was a key figure in the New Testament, notable for advocating for Paul when other Christians were hesitant to trust him and for co-labouring with Paul on missionary journeys. 

He was also a mentor to John Mark. Barnabas took his cousin, John Mark (traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of Mark), under his wing as an assistant on the first missionary journey. After John Mark abandoned them partway through, Paul refused to take him on the second journey, leading to a sharp disagreement and the two leaders parting ways. Barnabas, true to his nickname, took Mark to Cyprus, nurtured him, and helped him grow in ministry, a decision that was later vindicated when Paul requested Mark's assistance (Acts 15:36-41; 2 Timothy 4:11). 

Barnabas was a very warmhearted and generous person, one who did not hesitate to offer both himself and his material possessions willingly for the advancement of the Kingdom's interests. He gladly 'came to the aid' of his brothers (Ac 9:27), and in the presence of newly interested persons, "he rejoiced and began to encourage them all to continue in the Lord with hearty purpose." Barnabas "was a good man and full of the holy spirit and of faith" (Ac 11:23, 24).

The apostles referred to Barnabas as among their "loved ones" who had "delivered up their souls for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Ac 15:25, 26) Although he was not one of the 12 apostles, he was called correctly an apostle (Ac 14:14), for, indeed, he was one "sent out by the holy spirit."​—Ac 13:4, 43.

Conclusion:

Barnabas' example can stimulate us to take time to listen to, understand, and encourage the downhearted and provide practical aid whenever we see the need. The record of his willingness to serve his brothers with mildness and courage, as well as the excellent results this produced, is an encouragement in itself. What a blessing it is to have people like Barnabas in our congregations today!

Barnabas radiated concern for people. (Acts 4:36, 37; 9:27; 11:23, 24

Barnabas looked for practical ways to comfort those to whom you preach.

As a mature Christian overseer, Barnabas was eager to help others. It was he who aided the newly converted Saul of Tarsus when all the other disciples feared him because of his reputation as a persecutor. (Acts 9:26, 27) Barnabas responded humbly when Paul gave him and Peter strong counsel concerning the proper relationship between Jewish and Gentile Christians. (Gal. 2:9, 11-14) 

These few examples show that Barnabas truly lived up to his name​—"Son of Comfort."

5 days ago • 1 response • Vote Up • Share • Report

Shirley H Supporter Wife, mother, veteran in the spiritual war we all face!

Acts 4:36,37: "And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles feet."

See also Acts 9:27, 11:22-30. You will see him in Acts 12:25 and chapters 13-15.

4 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report