Topical Bible: Faith: Faith in Christ: Barnabas

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Barnabas, a prominent figure in the early Christian church, is a compelling example of faith in Christ. Known for his role as an encourager and a missionary, Barnabas's faith is evident through his actions and contributions to the spread of the Gospel.

Background and Early Life

Barnabas, originally named Joseph, was a Levite from Cyprus. He is first introduced in the Book of Acts, where he is described as a man of generosity and faith. Acts 4:36-37 states, "Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (meaning Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet." This act of selling his property and donating the proceeds to the early church demonstrates his deep commitment and faith in the mission of Christ.

Role in the Early Church

Barnabas played a crucial role in the early church, particularly in the acceptance and support of Saul (later Paul) after his conversion. Acts 9:27 records, "Then Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He described how Saul had seen the Lord on the road to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus." Barnabas's faith in Christ is evident in his willingness to vouch for Saul, recognizing the transformative power of Christ in Saul's life.

Missionary Journeys

Barnabas's faith is further exemplified through his missionary work. He was chosen by the Holy Spirit, along with Paul, for missionary service. Acts 13:2-3 states, "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." Barnabas's obedience to the Holy Spirit's call reflects his unwavering faith in Christ's mission.

Encouragement and Discipleship

Barnabas's faith is also seen in his role as an encourager and mentor. In Acts 11:22-24 , when the church in Jerusalem heard about the new believers in Antioch, they sent Barnabas to them. "When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord." His ability to encourage and strengthen the faith of others highlights his own deep-rooted faith in Christ.

Conflict and Reconciliation

Barnabas's faith is also evident in his handling of conflict. In Acts 15:36-39 , a disagreement arose between Paul and Barnabas regarding John Mark. "Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus." Barnabas's decision to support John Mark, despite the disagreement with Paul, shows his faith in Christ's ability to restore and use individuals for His purposes.

Legacy of Faith

Barnabas's legacy is one of faith, encouragement, and dedication to the Gospel. His life and actions serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith in Christ, impacting the early church and setting an example for believers throughout history.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 11:24
For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added to the Lord.
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Library

'The Door of Faith'
... but the 'rehearsing' of the experiences of Paul and Barnabas on their ... We are 'saved
by faith,' for faith brings into our spirits the Christ who saves His ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/the door of faith.htm

Alcuin on True Missionary Labours.
... of the Apostles, that Paul and Barnabas journeyed to ... gentle yoke and light burden
of Christ were preached ... arise at length teachers of the faith, moulded after ...
/.../neander/light in the dark places/alcuin on true missionary labours.htm

The Opinion of the Apostles on Veiling the Mysteries of the Faith.
... the mystery in the Gentiles," which is faith and hope ... first principles of the doctrine
of Christ, let us ... Barnabas, too, who in person preached the word along ...
/.../clement/the stromata or miscellanies/chapter x the opinion of the.htm

The Exhortation of Barnabas
... tells us, when we 'turn to the Lord.' We continue to be Christians, as Barnabas
reminded these ... In other words, faith joined us to Christ, and continuously ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/the exhortation of barnabas.htm

The Breaking Out of Discord
... rubbed off, as Hellenists like Paul and Barnabas had had ... not see"that if anything
else than faith was brought in as necessary to knit men to Christ, and make ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/the breaking out of discord.htm

The victory of Faith.
... Sons of Thunder," sometimes with a milder spirit, as Barnabas, which makes ... but in
the object of the faith"to believe that Jesus is the Christ is the ...
/.../robertson/sermons preached at brighton/ii the victory of faith.htm

Exalting the Cross
... "So Barnabas took Mark ... our Father." "By the hearing of faith" they received the Spirit
of God and became "the children of God by faith in Christ." Galatians 1 ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 20 exalting the cross.htm

Days of Preparation
... which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness
which is of God by faith: that I may ... "But Barnabas took him ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 13 days of preparation.htm

Paul
... to believe on his preaching, he took his name from him because he had subdued him
to faith in Christ, and having been joined by Barnabas, after traversing many ...
/.../various/jerome and gennadius lives of illustrious men /chapter v paul.htm

St. Barnabas 281. The Son of Consolation!
... II. THE CHRISTIAN YEAR St. Barnabas 281. ... Filled with the Holy Spirit. And fervent
faith divine,. With lowly self oblation,. For Christ an offering meet,. ...
/.../st barnabas 281 the son.htm