Written by Blesson Selvanesan
The Word
36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, 37 sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
Acts 4:36-37 ESV
26 And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus.
Acts 9:26-27 ESV
Interpretation
Joseph, better known by his nickname Barnabas, was from Cyprus and he heard about Jesus and followed his teachings. After the death and resurrection of Jesus, he was more deeply involved in the early ministry of the disciples of Jesus. He was righteous and was helpful to all in the early church. Barnabas was kind and humble, yet very bold. He made bold decisions and stood up for what he believed in.
When the Church suddenly exploded in growth, Barnabas identified the needs and sold his property to support the ministry. When Saul became Paul, Barnabas was a witness to his conversion. Without Barnabas, we would not have the Paul that we know of today. Paul had a notorious reputation and a bloody past, and disciples did not trust him. Barnabas took him and boldly testified in favor of Paul and made sure that everyone in the inner circle of the early church knew about his dramatic conversion.
Barnabas was also instrumental in giving ministry opportunities to Paul and mentored him into an effective disciple and a leader for the next generation. They took several mission trips together and effectively shared gospel across the then known world.
Application
Barnabas was an encourager. His encouragement was essential for the early church which was in chaos and in crisis. Disciples were scattered and living in fear. Yet, the Holy Spirit gave boldness to all and early Church had an explosive growth. Suddenly they did not know how to deal with that many new converts. Barnabas knew the need and supported the ministry.
Then came the problem of Paul who was persecuting the believers and suddenly started claiming to be a disciple of Jesus. The Apostles were skeptical and scared of him. Barnabas saw Paul’s life and the best in him, promoted him and vouched for him.
Do we know the needs for our congregations? Are we willing to sacrificially give for the cause of the Kingdom? Are we willing to vouch for others and believe in the best for others? Are we willing to use our influence to help others gain trust? Are we willing to disciple someone who is new and stand by their side? We need more and more people with the spirit of Barnabas in our Churches, especially during difficult times.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Help us to spread Your kindness and love. Help us to encourage others and believe in the best. Let us sacrificially give to Your kingdom by giving our time, talents and treasures just like Barnabas did. Help us to be instruments for You, just like Barnabas was for the early Church. In Jesus’ name, amen.
City Life Starter 
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