Acts chapter 11 verses 20-24 (NIV)
Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
I would love to have met and spent time with Barnabas. He was such an encouraging soul. I’m sure I would always feel blessed in his company. Earlier in the book of Acts we see how he took Saul under his wing when the disciples were afraid of Saul. Here we see him again encouraging new Greek believers to continue in their faith. I’m sure his encouragement was also a reason why we read that a great number of people came to the Lord.
Encouragement and support can make a huge difference. Barnabas didn’t care about Saul’s past, and he was happy to support Gentile believers. It’s our responsibility, as followers of Jesus, not to show favouritism, or treat people differently because of their past. How we behave towards people may colour their opinion of our faith, or even their opinion of Jesus. I want to be like Barnabas!
Dear Lord,
I have been blessed by people who have encouraged and supported me. They have made an impact in my life. Help me to be as encouraging as Barnabas, so that people get a glimpse of Jesus. I ask in His Name. Amen.