Topical Encyclopedia Barnabas, a prominent figure in the early Christian church, is best known for his close association with the Apostle Paul. His journey with Paul to Seleucia marks a significant moment in the spread of the Gospel to the Gentile world. Barnabas, originally named Joseph, was a Levite from Cyprus. He was given the name Barnabas, meaning "Son of Encouragement," by the apostles due to his encouraging nature and his role in the early church (Acts 4:36).Background and Context Barnabas first appears in the Book of Acts as a generous member of the early Christian community in Jerusalem. He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles to support the needs of the church (Acts 4:37). His reputation as a man of faith and encouragement was further solidified when he vouched for Paul, then known as Saul, after his conversion. Barnabas introduced Paul to the apostles, who were initially wary of him due to his past persecution of Christians (Acts 9:26-27). The Call to Missionary Work The church in Antioch, where Barnabas and Paul were leaders, became a pivotal center for the early Christian mission. It was here that the Holy Spirit called Barnabas and Paul to embark on their first missionary journey. Acts 13:2-3 records this moment: "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off." Journey to Seleucia Barnabas and Paul, accompanied by John Mark, set out from Antioch and traveled to Seleucia, a port city located about 16 miles west of Antioch. Seleucia served as the gateway to the Mediterranean Sea, making it a strategic starting point for their missionary journey. Acts 13:4 states, "So Barnabas and Saul, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus." Significance of the Journey The journey to Seleucia and beyond marked the beginning of a new phase in the spread of Christianity. Barnabas and Paul’s mission was characterized by their commitment to preaching the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. Their travels would take them to Cyprus, where Barnabas had familial ties, and then further into Asia Minor. This missionary journey laid the groundwork for the expansion of the church and the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith. Barnabas' Role and Legacy Barnabas' role in the early church was crucial. His partnership with Paul demonstrated the power of collaboration in ministry. Barnabas' ability to encourage and support others, including his willingness to give John Mark a second chance after a previous desertion (Acts 15:37-39), highlights his character as a leader who valued restoration and growth. Barnabas' journey with Paul to Seleucia is a testament to his dedication to the mission of the church and his obedience to the Holy Spirit's calling. His legacy as a "Son of Encouragement" continues to inspire believers to support and uplift one another in the work of the Gospel. Nave's Topical Index Acts 13:1Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. Nave's Topical Index Library Separated unto the Holy Ghost The Holy Spirit Sending Men Forth to Definite Lines of Work. Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ... Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of ... Resources Who was Barnabas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Epistle of Barnabas? | GotQuestions.org What happened on Paul's first missionary journey? | 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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