Barnabas stands out in the New Testament as someone whose very name embodies encouragement. Originally named Joseph, the apostles renamed him Barnabas, which means “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36). His life demonstrates how uplifting others can transform the early church.
How Barnabas Advocated for Paul
Barnabas played a crucial role in advocating for Paul when no one else would. After Paul’s dramatic conversion on the Damascus road, the disciples in Jerusalem feared him and doubted his transformation. They remembered him as Saul, the fierce persecutor of Christians. Barnabas stepped in at this critical moment.
“But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.” (Acts 9:27)
This act of encouragement changed the course of church history. Without Barnabas’s willingness to vouch for Paul, the apostles might have rejected him. Barnabas saw potential where others saw danger.
Later, Barnabas traveled to Antioch to find Paul and bring him into ministry there (Acts 11:25-26). This partnership launched Paul’s missionary journey. He recognized Paul’s gifts when others couldn’t see past his history.
Barnabas demonstrated three powerful encouragement principles:
- He stood by someone when they were rejected
- He advocated for someone’s gifts and calling
- He created opportunities for someone to fulfill their purpose
His example shows that true encouragement often requires personal risk and investment.
His Ministry of Strengthening New Believers
Barnabas dedicated himself to strengthening new believers throughout his ministry. When the Jerusalem church heard about new Gentile converts in Antioch, they sent Barnabas to investigate and support this growing community.
“When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.” (Acts 11:23)
His response reveals his encouraging heart. Instead of questioning or criticizing these new believers, he celebrated God’s work among them. He didn’t focus on their shortcomings or cultural differences.
Related Inspiring Examples of Living Sacrifice
Barnabas later embarked on missionary journeys specifically to strengthen churches. Acts 15:36 records, “Let us go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing.”
His ministry of encouragement included:
- Celebrating God’s work in people’s lives
- Exhorting believers to remain steadfast
- Following up with communities to ensure their growth
- Standing with believers during times of controversy
Barnabas embodied encouragement not just in words but through consistent, supportive action. His legacy reminds us that encouragement isn’t just about making people feel good—it’s about strengthening them to fulfill their God-given purpose.