Beech Tree News Network

In Acts 4:32-37, we are introduced to a man we know as Barnabas. He is an important character  mentioned throughout the narrative in Acts and in 3 of Paul’s epistles. He was given the nickname, Barnabas, which means “Son of Encouragement” but there is much more depth and dimension to that nickname than we might think.

Barnabas was encouraging and generous (Acts 4:32-37). He seems to have excelled at practical exhortation, encouraging the church by lifting people up to be and do what God would have them be and do. He encouraged generosity by demonstrating it himself. He sold his land to help provide for his brothers and sisters in need. We all have something we can share with others. There are lots of ways to be generous, and generosity is encouraging. Be like Barnabas. Be encouraging and generous.

He was forgiving and loving (Acts 9:26-28). When, after his miraculous conversion, Paul returned to Jerusalem, he wanted to join the church there, but they were all afraid. Paul was known for persecuting believers. Barclay observed, “It’s not remarkable the church didn’t want Paul, it’s remarkable that one brother did.” Barnabas forgave Paul his past sins, and in doing so, showed true brotherly love. Paul would later write the love “believes all things” (1 Cor. 13:7). Brotherly love gives the benefit of the doubt. And brotherly love values unity among brethren. Be forgiving, be loving. Be like Barnabas.

Barnabas was faithful and humble (Acts 11:19-26). When word came to the church in Jerusalem that Gentiles were obeying the gospel in Antioch, they desired to send someone to encourage them. They chose Barnabas. He was “full of faith” and a good man. And even though his work at Antioch was successful, Barnabas brought Paul in to help. His concern was for the church at Antioch, not himself. We should live in a way that our brethren have confidence in us. Confidence that we will put the truth above self-interest, personal preference, opinion, and judgment. You know… Be like Barnabas.

He was a worker and teacher (Acts 13:1-5). The Holy Spirit recognized his ability and willingness to work, so we recognize the value of work for the Lord. Labor takes many forms, and the kingdom still needs workers. A particularly important work is teaching the word of God. Barnabas was willing to go wherever he was needed. Teaching takes many forms. It is not limited to the church building, pulpit, or classroom, but occurs both by word and example at home, at school, at work, on social media, even when we are not trying to teach. Be like Barnabas. Be a worker and a teacher.

Barnabas was a mentor (Acts 15:36-40). On a previous preaching trip, John Mark had quit. He had let Paul down. Paul was not unforgiving, He simply no longer thought John Mark the best man for the job. But Barnabas saw something in John Mark and wanted to give him a second chance. Knowing Barnabas, he thought, “if I just encourage him, be generous with my time, forgive him, love him, show him a faithful and humble example, and teach him to be a worker and a teacher, John Mark could make a difference in the kingdom.” And he did. We all can use a second chance and a little mentoring on occasion. Be like Barnabas.

Look around. We always need another encourager. Be like Barnabas.