Barnabas first appears in Scripture through an act of generosity. Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, sold a field and placed the proceeds at the apostles’ feet. They gave him a name that described his character: Barnabas, son of encouragement. When believers in Jerusalem struggled to believe that Paul had truly become a disciple, Barnabas took him in, brought him to the apostles and told them what had happened on the Damascus road.
When the Jerusalem church heard what was happening in Antioch, it sent Barnabas. He rejoiced when he saw the grace of God and encouraged everyone to remain true to the Lord with devoted hearts. Then he went to Tarsus, searched for Paul and brought him back to Antioch. They taught together for a year, and the disciples were first called Christians in that city. Barnabas was a mentor who made room for another person’s ministry to become visible.
During prayer and fasting, the church in Antioch set apart Barnabas and Paul at the Holy Spirit’s call. After Cyprus they travelled to Perga, Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra and Derbe, proclaimed the gospel, endured opposition and strengthened new communities. When the people of Lystra mistook them for gods and tried to offer sacrifices, they directed the crowd to the living God. Barnabas later separated from Paul over John Mark and gave the younger servant another opportunity. His story shows encouragement as a spiritual strength that raises people and future generations.