BARNABAS
18th Mar 2015
Barnabas ‘son of encouragement’ originally named Joseph, a Cypriot and a Levite. As a Levite he knew the Lord was to be his inheritance, that as part of that tribe he was called into a very special dependance upon God. In Acts 4:36-7 we see his wholehearted response to the gospel as he sold a field and gave the money to the apostles. A little later, he takes Paul under his wing, seeing beyond the natural suspicions of the other believers, he stood up for him, believing Paul to be genuine. (Acts 9:26-27)
Later when a great number were turning to faith in Jesus in Antioch, Barnabas is sent by the apostles to check things out. (Acts 11:21-24) He saw God was behind it all, so threw himself in with them, got behind them, urging them to stay with it for the rest of their lives. He was a good man, enthusiastic and confident in the Holy Spirit’s ways. Consequently, the community grew large and strong in the Master.
We need Barnabas’ in our churches and personal lives; people who encourage, who see beyond weakness and failure to potential and how it can be developed. Paul was impatient with young Mark, he and Barnabas went separate ways because of this. Strong leaders often are so focussed on vision they dismiss anyone who doesn’t immediately do what they feel is right.
We need Barnabas’ to see disciple and encourage. Pray that you will be a ‘son of encouragement’, getting alongside those growing up in God, imparting wisdom and hope.
Barnabas is successful with Mark, In Colossians 4:10 Paul says, “My fellow prisoner sends greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.” In 2 Timothy 4:11 he says, “Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.”
Barnabas - encourager, discipler, friend, seer, giver, and sensitive to the Holy Spirit!
What an example!
by Joyce Sibthorpe
