Not Just A Bible Character Barnabas

Name given by the apostles to an early convert to Christianity in Jerusalem, formerly his name was Joseph.

The Barnabas story can be found in the Book of Acts. Barnabas was one of the first to sell possessions to help the Christians community in Jerusalem.

In Acts 11 verse 24: Describes Barnabas as, “For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith – and a large number of people were added to the Lord.”

Barnabas was an Encourager, and was one of the most quietly influential people in the early days of Christianity. Barnabas was called an Apostle, even though he was not one of the twelve. His good reputation in Jerusalem may have influenced the Apostles to select him as Paul’s companion for missionary work.

Barnabas recruited Paul, now a Christian, to help in Antioch, and both of them would stay there for a year, teaching a large number of Christians.{Acts 11 verse26}. When famine hit Jerusalem, Barnabas and Paul were sent with relief funds. Barnabas was commissioned with Paul to preach beyond the boundaries of Antioch. {13 verses 2 to 3}.

Lesson we can take from Barnabas:

Encouragement is one of the most effective ways to help.

BE AN ENCOURAGER.

Sooner or later true obedience to God will involve risk.

BE A RISK TAKER FOR GOD.

There is always someone who needs encouragement.

BE TRUE TO YOUR FAITH, AND USE IT TO ENCOURAGE.

Read more about Barnabas in the Book of Acts.

God Bless.

O F J.