Acts chapter 9 verses 26-28 (NIV)
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.
We are told here that the disciples were afraid of Saul. They had only known him as Saul the persecuter, not Paul the Apostle as he became. But Barnabas took Saul under his wing and supported him by speaking up for him. It was Barnabas’ support that made the disciples change their mind. He lived out the meaning of his name – “son of encouragement.”
Sometimes we may be surprised at who comes to know Jesus for themselves. They will, just like us, have a life before they came to Jesus. Some may have a past that would have made us avoid them if we’d met them in earlier days. But we need to remember that they have become a new creation, and be like Barnabas, offering them encouragement and support in their new life.
Dear Lord,
This bible passage reminds me of the importance of encouragement. Help me to be quick to encourage others, especially those young in the faith. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.