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, having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostle’s feet. Acts 4:36,37
Among the early Christians, few people were as prominent as Barnabas, other than the apostles. This man became a great Gospel preacher and missionary, and devoted much of his life to teaching the Christians and to planting and building up local Assemblies. Some authorities have speculated that Barnabas wrote some of all of the book of Hebrews. Although this is unlikely, Barnabas was a capable and learned teacher who had solid credentials as a devoted and valuable servant of the Lord. It all started with his great act of personal sacrifice, and the resulting name that he received from the apostles.
Barnabas’ name means son of consolation, or son of encouragement. Certainly his financial contribution to the apostles and the work they were doing was a great encouragement to the other Christians. At a time when finances might have been uncertain and expenses were soaring, this money would have taken a great deal of pressure off those who were trying to supply the needs. This contribution would have been an answer to prayer and a boost to the spirits of the entire company. Christians who give of their substance to the Lord and His people are often unaware of how much it is appreciated and how much help it provides. But the example of Barnabas tells us that all who give generously to the Lord are sources of encouragement, appreciated by both the Lord and His people.
This act of Barnabas was not uncharacteristic of the man. If we follow his ministry through the book of the Acts, we see he gave himself to the work of the Lord. He could be depended on to teach and support the young believers in Antioch. His involvement in the early councils of Christianity was of great value, as was his coaching of Saul of Tarsus in that man’s early life as a believer. Everything about his life was as an encourager, and he is sure to be commended for this great attribute when he stands before the Judgment Seat of Christ. Despite his clash with Paul over his desire to take his relative Mark on their missionary journey, we encounter little in Barnabas’ life and ministry that is negative or disappointing. Among the early Christians, he gives us a great example to follow.
Encouraging other Christians is a great and valuable work, whether we do so by giving, serving, or exhorting. We have Barnabas’ example to follow, and the Lord’s people to serve. -Jim MacIntosh