BARNABAS: A BIBLICAL MODEL
OF AN ENCOURAGER
Barnabas is perhaps the most-well known encourager in the New Testament. In fact, he embodied encouragement so much that the apostles changed his name from Joseph to Barnabas, which means “son of encouragement.”
There are five biblical examples in which Barnabas clearly demonstrated the characteristics of an encourager.
- Encouragers are givers. In Acts 4:36-47, Barnabas sells his land and gives the proceeds to the apostles to distribute to those in need.
Encouragers do something tangible to edify and build up other people.
- Encouragers are supporters. In Acts 9:20-27, people are questioning Paul’s conversion and Barnabas steps up to testify on his behalf to the Apostles.
Encouragers have the ability to look beyond someone’s past and accept them for who they are in Christ.
- Encouragers are helpers. In Acts 11:21-24, Barnabas helped young converts get established in the faith.
Encouragers take an interest in and help others.
- Encouragers look for partners. In Acts 11:24-25, when the Gentile church is really starting to grow, Barnabas enlists the partnership of Paul to disciple the new converts.
Encouragers are more interested in meeting needs than getting credit.
- Encouragers are forgivers. In Acts 15:36, Barnabas gives John Mark another ministry opportunity in spite of a previous failure.
Encouragers are forgiving people who give others a second chance.
PEOPLE WANT TO FOLLOW ENCOURAGERS!
Who is the Barnabas in your life and ministry? Are you a Barnabas to others? A community of appreciation and encouragement helps to build the Kingdom of God!
Mitchell Corder 