Barnabas
The son of encouragement — the Levite from Cyprus who sold a field and laid the proceeds at the apostles' feet, who vouched for Saul when no one else would, and who went to Antioch to strengthen the new Gentile church.
The Son of Encouragement
Scripture: Acts 4; 9; 11; 13-15
The Biblical Record
Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus whom the apostles called Barnabas — which means son of encouragement — sold a field he owned and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. When Saul arrived in Jerusalem after his conversion and the disciples were all afraid of him, Barnabas brought him to the apostles and testified to his encounter with Christ. When the church in Antioch was growing, the Jerusalem church sent Barnabas to investigate — and he saw the grace of YHWH and was glad, and he encouraged them to remain true to YHWH with all their hearts. Then he went to find Saul.
Barnabas in the Sanctum
Barnabas is the figure of the encourager whose behind-the-scenes ministry made possible the most visible work of others. Without Barnabas vouching for Saul, the story of Paul might never have reached the church. The Sanctum honors the ministry of introduction, advocacy, and backing that makes visible ministry possible.
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