Barnabas, the Encourager

Barnabas was one of Paul's closest friends. When most other followers of Christ were afraid to let Paul into their fellowship since he had once persecuted so many of them, Barnabas saw something special in the new apostle and stood up for him. When he was sent to help the fledgling church at Antioch, Barnabas asked Paul to go with him, and thus began Paul's serious ministry to the Gentiles.

Barnabas was an encourager. In fact, his name means "son of encouragement." Barnabas accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey and encouraged young John Mark after he left their journey not to leave the ministry. Although Paul was displeased with the young follower at the time, years later, he would praise Mark and consider him a friend.

Barnabas may have often worked more in the background, but he was an integral part of the ministry. His positive attitude, the ability to see the best in people, and the encouragement he gave went a long way in furthering the gospel message. We can learn much for his stalworth disciple.

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