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BARNABAS: THE SON OF CONSOLATION
LORD’S DAY, NOVEMBER 8
Acts 4:32-37

Acts 11:25

 

“Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus,

for to seek Saul.”

 

BARNABAS: THE SON OF CONSOLATION
 
One unforgettable personality in church history is Barnabas (originally named Joses), a Levite from Cyprus. The Apostles gave him the name “Barnabas… being interpreted, The son of consolation” (Acts 4:36), for he was known to bring comfort to the needy and encouragement to the saints. His generosity was evident when he sold a field and laid the proceeds at the Apostles’ feet, so that the money could be distributed to the believers according to their needs.
 
Scripture further describes him as “a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith” (Acts 11:24). Barnabas played a vital role in encouraging Saul (later Paul) when others were hesitant to accept him (Acts 9:26-28). He exhorted the growing church in Antioch to remain stedfast in the Lord (Acts 11:19-26) and brought relief to the brethren in Judea during a famine (Acts 11:27-30). Though he had moments of weakness, such as his contention with Paul over John Mark (Acts 15:36-41) and being influenced by Peter’s dissimulation (Gal 2:11-13), Barnabas still stands as a model of encouragement and consolation.
 
His life reminds us that even in human frailty, God’s grace enables believers to be sources of comfort and blessing. Having received so much from God, we are called to share the good news of salvation with unbelievers, to exhort new believers to grow in grace, to strengthen the saints to remain stedfast, and to encourage ministers to faithfully preach the Word in season and out of season.
 
How refreshing it is when saints exhort one another, when believers are edified by fellow believers, and when servants of the Lord are strengthened by the presence of fellow servants. In a world often hostile to the Christian faith, we desperately need mutual support, fellowship with like-minded brethren, and the uplifting words of pastors and fellow Christians.
 
THOUGHT: Am I living as an encouragement to others, reflecting the consolation of Christ?
PRAYER: Father, make me a blessing to others, as Thou hast richly blessed me. May my life bring comfort, encouragement and strength to those around me, for Thy glory.

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