Acts 4, 11 and 13 all give prominent attention to a man named Barnabus. His significance is as an encourager and bridge person. He served to strengthen and connect people, places and purposes. Initially a multi-faceted secondary and servant-leader, he’s a great portrait of a businessman or wealthy person committed to ministry, missions and mentoring young leaders. Over time, he became 1 of the most influential in the early church.
“BARNABAS” was an apostle (Acts 4:36-37; 11:19-26), and Paul's companion on his first missionary journey (Acts 13:1-14:28). He is introduced as a Levite from the island of Cyprus whose given name was Joseph, or Joses (Acts 4:36). Land in Cyprus was similar to nice beach-front property today. When he became a Christian, he sold this land and gave the money to the Jerusalem apostles (Acts 4:36-37). Because of his good reputation, Barnabas was able to calm the fear of Saul among the Christians in Jerusalem (Acts 9:27).
Early in the history of the church, Barnabas went to Antioch to check on the growth of this early group of Christians. Then he journeyed to Tarsus and brought Saul back to minister with him to the Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:25). He and Saul also brought money from Antioch to the Jerusalem church when it was suffering a great famine (Acts 11:27-30). Shortly thereafter, the Holy Spirit led the Antioch church to commission Barnabas and Paul, along with John Mark, Barnabas' cousin, to make a missionary journey (Acts 13:1-3) to the provinces of Asia Minor. A disagreement then developed between Barnabas and Paul over John Mark (Col. 4:10). Barnabas wanted to take John Mark on their second missionary journey, but Paul felt John Mark should stay behind because he had left the first mission at Cyprus (Acts 13:13). Paul and Barnabas went their separate ways, and Barnabas took John Mark with him on a second mission to Cyprus, while Paul and Silas traveled through Syria and Cilicia (Acts 15:36-41).
I. The Role of Barnabus:
The Church owes much to Barnabus, and we should learn from his example. He was a bridge-person in God’s works. His life was used to connect and carry people into God’s plans. Barnabus was a Hellenistic Jew. This means he was bi-cultural, embracing Greek culture and Jewish faith. Now as a Christian, he bridges the Jerusalem Church with the Church in Antioch. He reassured the Jerusalem Church that the company of Gentile believers was acceptable. He remembered Saul of Tarsus and trusted him by bringing Paul into ministry in Antioch. He went out with Paul on the first cross-cultural mission journey across Asia Minor. He believed in young John Mark, and was his advocate and mentor. Barnabus consistently served as a bridge to connect people to God’s purposes.
II. The Characteristics of Barnabus:
Son of Encouragement- Acts 4:36
We should never forget the indispensable role of encouragement. Barnabus represents a smile, kind word and a pat on the back. However, encouragement is more than words, it’s a lifestyle. It’s a deliberate, caring way to give value to a person with the wealth of your thoughtfulness. It works anytime, anyplace and especially with family. We should remember Barnabus’ name also means “One who is called to stand with or stand alongside.” He was a servant and mentor that made a difference. We all need encouragement!
Another common belief attached to the apostles changing of Barnabus’ name is that the influence of his prophetic gift was great. Out of his heart to help and encourage others, it seems that God anointed him with words of prophecy that served to edify, exhort and comfort others. How wonderful is this gift in building and strengthening Christian lives and Churches; and how we need the prophetic ministry today that communicates God’s heart and eyes for our lives and endeavors. Let us believe God to speak to us and through us for the blessing and encouragement of others.
Sold-out (literally)- Acts 4:37
Barnabus was re-named which usually accompanies a radical life change. His heart for God and generosity paved the way for a life of kindness and sacrificial service. Because of this, he was able to overcome the snares of materialism and greed that dominate our selfish, comfort-driven culture. His attitudes and actions proved he was no slave to possessions or the pursuit of personal gain. He is as a positive example of serving God, rather than Mammon…and seeking 1st the Kingdom, while trusting God to provide for you. He was trusted by people and useful to God because of an open heart and hands. This man lived whole-hearted in a half-hearted world.
Strategic Vision- Acts 9:26-28, Acts 11:23, 12:25, 15:37-39
He took Paul when everyone was scared, and led him in his first ministry opportunity and mission trip. He took John Mark when Paul had given up on him. Barnabus looked for and discerned the grace of God. He had the spiritual sensitivity to see destiny in others so he could look beyond human frailty with the eyes of faith. While ministers today look for better methods, management and technology; Barnabus joined God in looking for better men. Barnabus’ faith was not just faith in God, but faith in the work of God in other peoples lives. Because of this, he shows us the value of non-prominent Christians in the significant works of God. Other than worship, there is no greater ministry than to lovingly serve another for their benefit and God’s glory. It is in mentoring, making disciples and teaching children that we may have the most fruit and influence.
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