Barnabas (Son of Encouragement)

Barnabas is mentioned in connection with the early Christian community in Jerusalem. Some property owners were selling their houses or land and giving the proceeds to care for the needy persons in the church.

"And Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth, who was also called Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means, Son of Encouragement), and who owned a tract of land, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet." Acts 4:36-37

Later, Barnabas was sent by the church in Jerusalem to Antioch of Syria, where a large number of Greeks had believed in the Lord Jesus (until that time, the church had been composed primarily of Jewish converts).

"Then, when he had come and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord." Acts 11:23-24

After a while, Barnabas decided to get another gifted teacher to help with the thriving church in Antioch.

"And he left for Tarsus to look for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. And it came about that for an entire year they met with the church, and taught considerable numbers; and the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch." Acts 11:25-26

In the spirit of Barnabas of old, our aim at Barnabas Place is to encourage you, to answer your questions and to put you in touch with the best teachers and resources so you can become more mature in Christ. (Back to FAQ)

For a detailed description of our worldview and the essential elements of our values, see "A Brief and Untechnical Statement of the Reformed Faith" by B. B. Warfield.