Topical Encyclopedia Barnabas, a prominent figure in the early Christian church, is best known for his missionary journeys alongside the Apostle Paul. His journey to Iconium is a significant event in the spread of the Gospel during the first century. This entry explores Barnabas's role and activities during this mission.Background Barnabas, originally named Joseph, was a Levite from Cyprus. He was given the name Barnabas, meaning "Son of Encouragement," by the apostles (Acts 4:36). Known for his generosity and leadership, Barnabas played a crucial role in the early church, particularly in Antioch, where he was instrumental in the growth of the Christian community (Acts 11:22-24). Missionary Journey to Iconium The journey to Iconium is part of Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey, as recorded in the Book of Acts. After their time in Pisidian Antioch, where they faced opposition from some Jewish leaders, Paul and Barnabas traveled to Iconium, a city in the region of Lycaonia (Acts 13:50-51). Preaching in Iconium In Iconium, Paul and Barnabas entered the Jewish synagogue, a common practice for them, as they sought to reach both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles. Acts 14:1 states, "At Iconium, Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue, where they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed." Their preaching was marked by the power of the Holy Spirit, leading to a significant number of conversions. Opposition and Division Despite their success, Paul and Barnabas faced opposition from some Jews who refused to believe. These opponents stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers (Acts 14:2). The city became divided, with some siding with the Jews and others with the apostles (Acts 14:4). Signs and Wonders During their time in Iconium, Paul and Barnabas were granted the ability to perform signs and wonders, which served to confirm the message of the Gospel. Acts 14:3 notes, "So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders." These miraculous acts further validated their ministry and drew attention to their message. Threat of Violence and Departure As the tension in Iconium escalated, a plot emerged among both Gentiles and Jews, with their leaders, to mistreat and stone Paul and Barnabas. Upon learning of this plot, the apostles fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and the surrounding region, where they continued to preach the Gospel (Acts 14:5-7). Legacy Barnabas's journey to Iconium with Paul highlights his dedication to the mission of spreading the Gospel, despite facing significant opposition and danger. His partnership with Paul exemplifies the collaborative efforts of early Christian leaders in establishing the church and expanding its reach across diverse regions. Barnabas's role in Iconium is a testament to his courage, faith, and commitment to the message of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Acts 14:1-7And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spoke, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed. Nave's Topical Index Library Jewish Rejecters and Gentile Receivers The Propagation of Christianity. The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Galatians The Extension of the Church Throughout the World Acts xv. 35 The Cripple at Lystra Acts xiv. 14, 15 Acts XVI The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. Dialogue i. --The Immutable. 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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