I probably did not know of Barnabas when I was young. However, I do vividly recall the name of my very first Sunday School teacher. I would have been about four years old, but I have distinct memories of her dedication and her enthusiasm for sharing the Bible. Also, as a teenager and beginning to help in Sunday School myself, I recall the training evenings we had to help us prepare well. The Leader was a busy mum and doctor’s wife, yet she had time to help and share her knowledge. Both of these ladies were true encouragers, and there have been many others in my life who have been an encouragement, through good times and hard times.
Who was Barnabas? We meet him in Acts 4:36 where we learn that he sold a field, with the proceeds available for the Apostles’ use. He was an early missionary and in Acts 11:23, we read of his encouragement of the believers in Antioch, that they might “remain true to the Lord with all their hearts”. He served the church in Antioch and many were brought to faith as they were taught the Gospel. He was known as a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith”. It was Barnabas who convinced the Apostles to accept the newly converted Saul, Acts 9:27. It was Barnabas who accepted Gentile believers and built up the church far into Asia Minor. It was Barnabas who gave Mark a second chance, Acts 15:39.
Barnabas shared the Gospel, pastored and discipled young believers. What an encourager.
Lord, help me to be a Barnabas. Please strengthen all our NISCU Staff as they share the Gospel today and pastor and disciple young believers.
Margaret Hughes, North Cumbria support group 2004-2025
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