Topical Encyclopedia Barnabas, a significant figure in the early Christian church, is introduced in the New Testament as a Levite from Cyprus. His original name was Joseph, but the apostles called him Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement" (Acts 4:36). He is renowned for his role as a missionary, his partnership with the Apostle Paul, and his contributions to the spread of the Gospel among the Gentiles.Early Life and Conversion Barnabas is first mentioned in the Book of Acts, where he is described as a generous man who sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles to support the early Christian community (Acts 4:37). This act of generosity highlights his commitment to the nascent church and his willingness to support its mission. Role in the Early Church Barnabas played a crucial role in the acceptance of Paul by the early Christian community. After Paul's conversion, many believers were skeptical of his transformation due to his past persecution of Christians. Barnabas, however, vouched for Paul and introduced him to the apostles, recounting how Paul had seen the Lord and preached boldly in His name (Acts 9:27). Missionary Journeys Barnabas was instrumental in the church at Antioch, where he was sent by the Jerusalem church to investigate the spread of the Gospel among the Gentiles. Recognizing the grace of God at work, he encouraged the believers to remain true to the Lord (Acts 11:22-23). Barnabas then sought out Paul in Tarsus to assist in teaching the growing number of believers in Antioch (Acts 11:25-26). The Holy Spirit set apart Barnabas and Paul for missionary work, leading to their first missionary journey (Acts 13:2). They traveled to Cyprus and various regions in Asia Minor, preaching the Gospel and establishing churches. Barnabas is often mentioned alongside Paul, indicating his prominent role in these missions (Acts 13:1-14:28). Council of Jerusalem Barnabas was also a key figure in the Council of Jerusalem, where the early church leaders debated the necessity of circumcision for Gentile converts. He, along with Paul, testified to the signs and wonders God had done among the Gentiles, supporting the argument that salvation through Jesus Christ was available to all, irrespective of adherence to the Mosaic Law (Acts 15:12). Separation from Paul A notable event in Barnabas's life was his disagreement with Paul over John Mark, who had deserted them on a previous journey. Barnabas wanted to give Mark another chance, while Paul disagreed, leading to their separation. Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus, while Paul chose Silas for his subsequent journey (Acts 15:36-39). This incident underscores Barnabas's character as an encourager and advocate for second chances. Legacy Barnabas's legacy is one of encouragement, generosity, and bridge-building within the early church. His willingness to support Paul and advocate for John Mark highlights his role as a peacemaker and mentor. His contributions to the spread of Christianity and his dedication to the mission of the church are evident throughout the New Testament narrative. Barnabas's life exemplifies the qualities of faithfulness, courage, and compassion, making him a revered figure in Christian history. Nave's Topical Index Acts 14:14Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, Nave's Topical Index Library Introductory Note to the Epistle of Barnabas The Apostle of the Gentiles. Conclusion. The Acts of Barnabus. The Ordination of Paul and Barnabas; their Missionary Tour in Asia ... The Utility of Fear. Objections Answered. Barnabas Refutation of the Opinion, that Paul was the Only Apostle who had ... Paul and Barnabas in Lystra. The Disciples of Our Saviour. Resources Should Muslims read the Gospel of Barnabas as the true story of Isa? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the account of Paul and Barnabas? | GotQuestions.org What is the gospel of Barnabas? | GotQuestions.org Barnabas: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Barnabas is Reconciled to Paul Barnabas is Sent As an Emissary to Jerusalem Barnabas: A Levite Who Gave his Possessions to be Owned in Common With Other Disciples Barnabas: Accompanies Paul to Jerusalem Barnabas: Brings Him to the Apostles Barnabas: Called Jupiter (Zeus) Barnabas: Devotion of, to Jesus Barnabas: Disaffected Toward Paul Barnabas: Goes With Paul to Iconium Barnabas: Goes With Paul to Seleucia Barnabas: Returns With Paul to Antioch (Of Syria) Related Terms |
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