encouragment
In this
history, Luke notes that those who were escaping the persecution in Jerusalem spread out to
other areas preaching the word primarily to the Jews. It was a good thing the gospel was being
preached, but as usual, God had more in store.
Sometimes it takes “outsiders” to
stir things up, and to move us to a new perspective. Some people from Cyprus
and Cyrene, facilitated just such an expansion of thought by expanding the
audience receiving the Good News. This
was in unity with God’s heart, and a great number believed and turned to the
Lord.
As news of this reached the church
in Jerusalem, the leaders decided to do some “follow-up”, choosing one they
knew to be faithful, full of hope and encouragement, looking for the best in
others: Barnabus. Described as a good man, full of the Holy
Spirit and of faith, he is a great example of a person operating in the gifts
God has given him.
It is interesting that Barnabus
seeks Saul to come and help with teaching in the church in Antioch .
I suspect that is in part because Paul was a gifted teacher and Barnabus
recognized this was not necessarily his strength. He desired that the church in Antioch have
the foundational instruction necessary to continue to thrive as a healthy body
of believers, so he did what he could to help make that happen. He did not need to be the hero here, he
simply wanted their best, and he did what he could to facilitate that.
The church grew, fostered the use
of spiritual gifts, gained a reputation among the locals as “Christ-people”. They saw beyond their own needs and sent aid to believers living outside their
own borders.
Often Pastors, Teachers, and Leaders,
are admired and appreciated for their great teaching and leading. What about those who are more “behind the
scenes”? Think about the people in your
own life, and in your church fellowship, whose support and encouragement is
every bit as important, but probably quite a bit less visible.
Take time today to express your
appreciation for the Barnabus in your life.
In doing so you will be a little more like Barnabus yourself! J
Read and Pray: Galatians
6:6-10, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Proverbs 16:24
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