Barnabas

Barnabas, introduced in Acts as “the son of encouragement,” stands as one of the most unlikely yet influential figures of the early church. Though mentioned only briefly in Scripture, his decisions shaped the future of the church, the spread of the gospel, and even the New Testament itself. His story reminds believers today that encouragement, advocacy, and grace are powerful tools in God’s hands.

Fully Committed to the Mission

Barnabas was introduced in Acts as a Levite from Cyprus who sold a field and gave the money to the apostles. This act revealed his wholehearted commitment to the mission of God. His encouragement was not empty words—it was costly and personal. He had skin in the game, demonstrating that genuine encouragement flows from sacrifice and investment in God’s kingdom.

Advocated for the Unlikely

When Saul, the former persecutor of Christians, tried to join the disciples in Jerusalem, the believers were understandably afraid. Barnabas stepped in. He vouched for Saul, stood with him, and opened the door for his ministry. Without Barnabas’ courage, Saul—later known as Paul—may have been sidelined. Instead, Paul went on to become one of the greatest missionaries and authors of the New Testament.

Barnabas’ example shows the importance of standing with the unlikely, the overlooked, and even the feared. His willingness to advocate changed the course of church history.

Multiplied His Impact

Later, revival broke out in Antioch. Barnabas was sent to investigate, and instead of seizing the opportunity for himself, he recognized what was needed. He went to Tarsus to find Saul and brought him back. Together they taught in Antioch for a year, and it was there that the disciples were first called Christians.

Barnabas multiplied his impact by involving others. He refused to hoard influence or opportunity, instead sharing it so that the church could grow beyond what he could accomplish alone.

Gave Grace Abundantly

Barnabas’ grace was most evident in his relationship with John Mark. After Mark abandoned a missionary journey, Paul refused to take him again. Barnabas disagreed, choosing to take Mark under his care. His investment bore fruit—Mark was later restored to ministry, and Paul himself eventually called him “useful” (2 Timothy 4:11). Church history credits this same John Mark with writing the Gospel of Mark.

Barnabas’ choice to give a second chance preserved a legacy that continues to bless the church today.

Why It Matters

Barnabas reminds believers that encouragement is more than kind words. It is costly commitment, courageous advocacy, shared opportunities, and abundant grace. His ministry shows that the church grows stronger when people are willing to put others first, believe in the unlikely, and restore the broken.

Every Christian has the opportunity to be a “Barnabas” for someone else—to stand beside them, call them forward, and point them toward God’s purposes.