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The early church · around AD 30-50

Barnabas in the Bible

The son of encouragement. Name meaning: “Son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36), a nickname given by the apostles; his real name is Joseph

Joseph, nicknamed Barnabas, is a Levite from Cyprus, generous and encouraging. He opens the door of the church to the converted Saul, strengthens the young church in Antioch, then carries out the first missionary journey with Paul. He also believes in John Mark when Paul rejects him. “He was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith” (Acts 11:24).

Main books: Acts

Key moments

  • He sells his field and gives the proceeds Acts 4:36–37
  • He introduces the converted Saul to the apostles Acts 9:27
  • Sent to Antioch, “a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost” Acts 11:24
  • He goes to Tarsus to find Saul Acts 11:25–26
  • Set apart with Saul by the Holy Spirit Acts 13:2
  • Called Jupiter by the crowd at Lystra Acts 14:12
  • He parts ways with Paul and leaves with Mark Acts 15:39

Strengths

  • Encouragement
  • Generosity
  • Trust extended to others
  • Humility
  • Full of the Holy Spirit and of faith

Weaknesses

At Antioch, Barnabas was carried away by the hypocrisy of Peter and the other Jews, who kept apart from Christians of Gentile origin (Gal 2:13). His disagreement with Paul over Mark was “so sharp” that it separated them (Acts 15:39).

Lessons for today

  • The ministry of encouragement changes lives: believe in someone when others reject him (Acts 9:27).
  • Rejoice in God’s work in others and know how to step back so that others can grow (Acts 11:23; 13:13).
  • Give a second chance to the one who has failed: Mark became “profitable … for the ministry” (Acts 15:37-39; 2 Tim 4:11).
  • Even a godly man can give in to group pressure: we must stay faithful to the truth of the gospel (Gal 2:13).
And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,
Acts 4:36
Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
Acts 11:23–24
As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
Acts 13:2

People around Barnabas

  • Paul — The man he introduced to the church, his companion on the first journey
  • John Mark — His cousin, whom he took under his wing
  • Peter — The apostle whose example he followed at Antioch
  • James — Pillar of the church who gave him the right hand of fellowship

Stories with Barnabas

Quiz: how well do you know Barnabas?

What does the nickname “Barnabas” mean?

Which island was Barnabas from?

Whom did Barnabas bring to the apostles when everyone was afraid of him?

There are many more questions like these in Bible Academy, each with its explanation and verse. Start your free trial.