Paul and Barnabas

According to Acts 4:36 Barnabas' real name was Joseph and the apostles called him "Barnabas" because it means "son of encouragement." Barnabas was one who felt compassion for those who were outsiders. He loved people. We see this in his relationship with Paul.

If anyone was an outsider to the early church it was Paul. No one would touch him. He was the enemy. "What if he just wanted to infiltrate the church and carry us all to prison." Though many would dare not believe Paul had put his faith in Christ, Barnabas believed.

Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith (Acts 11:22). Barnabas was one who encouraged and loved others because he was a man of faith and full fo the Holy Spirit. He remembered that Christ had loved and accepted him. He saw the powerful love and compassion of Christ in Paul's life. He knew God's unconditional love. Faith feels the wonder of being accepted into God's family. He was once cut off. But now he is family.

Encouraging others and loving others is commanded in Scripture. We are to be people full of faith. The story of Barnabas and his relationship with Paul challenges us to remember what God has done for us and to know that he has the power to do that in the lives of anyone he pleases.

Go into all the world and preach the gospel. Paul and Barnabas did just that. And they loved every second. Not because of success or comfort or attention, but because they knew God and were joyful to proclaim the wonderful news of Jesus Christ.