Dutch Sheets : We All Need a Barnabas | Give Him 15: Daily Prayer with Dutch | May 26, 2026
The Power of Encouragement: Why Every Christian Needs a Barnabas
In every believer’s life, there are moments when faith is tested, when the road seems lonely, and hope feels out of reach. During these seasons, God often sends an encourager—a friend who comes alongside us, breathes hope into weary souls, and revives our spirit. In the early days of the Church, there was one such man who embodied this kind of support: Barnabas, known throughout scripture as the “son of encouragement.” His story holds vital lessons for all of us who seek to follow Christ faithfully.
Barnabas: The Unsung Hero of Encouragement
Barnabas’s real name was Joseph, but the apostles gave him a new name that described his heart and his gift. Barnabas means “son of encouragement,” and this wasn’t just a label—it was a calling. As a Levite from Cyprus, Barnabas’s life was marked by radical generosity and compassion. When the early church in Jerusalem was in need, he selflessly sold a field he owned and offered the proceeds to the apostles, demonstrating a generosity that inspired the entire community (Acts 4).
But Barnabas wasn’t just generous with his money—he gave courage and hope in moments when others held back in fear. When Paul, who had been a persecutor of the Church, experienced his miraculous conversion, the Christians in Jerusalem were understandably cautious. Most doubted Paul’s sincerity and kept their distance. Barnabas, willing to risk his reputation, advocated for Paul. He introduced Paul to the apostles and recounted his testimony, paving the way for Paul’s acceptance and future ministry.
The Role of Barnabas in the Early Church
God called Barnabas to serve as a leader in Antioch during a critical season of growth. The Jerusalem church trusted him to discern the authenticity of this blossoming congregation made up of Jews and Gentiles. Arriving in Antioch, Barnabas immediately recognized God’s grace at work. He encouraged these new believers, building them up in faith and unity. Scripture describes him as “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith,” and as a result, “a great multitude was added to the Lord” (Acts 11).
Barnabas also played a crucial role as a mentor. He sought out Paul in Tarsus, invited him to co-labor in Antioch, and together they taught the church for a year. This partnership extended to their first missionary journey, where they faced persecution and hardship side by side. Barnabas’s support helped shape Paul’s ministry, showing us the far-reaching impact a faithful encourager can have.
Conflict and the Test of True Encouragement
Not every story in the Bible is neat and tidy, and the relationship between Paul and Barnabas eventually faced a serious test. The rift centered on John Mark, who had previously deserted them on a mission trip. Paul refused to give Mark another chance, but Barnabas saw potential where others saw failure. Rather than agree to disagree, they parted ways—Barnabas taking Mark to Cyprus, while Paul partnered with Silas.
Although the Book of Acts shifts its focus to Paul, it’s important to note that Barnabas continued his labor in the background, quietly investing in others. His patient mentoring of John Mark bore rich fruit: years later, Mark so matured in the faith that Paul specifically requested his help, acknowledging his usefulness in ministry. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes encouragement takes the form of standing by someone when they’ve fallen short, nurturing growth and waiting for God to complete His work.
Barnabas’s Gift and Its Lasting Impact
The strength that made Paul a relentless pioneer—his focused drive and intolerance for compromise—was also a weakness when it came to nurturing the less mature. Barnabas, on the other hand, was gifted with mercy, always willing to give a second chance and patiently walk beside the struggling. God blessed both men in their unique callings. Mark grew because of the tough love of Paul and the persistent support of Barnabas. Both approaches, though different, were necessary parts of Mark’s journey to maturity.
This dynamic speaks volumes about how God builds His Church. Each believer’s strength can also be a blind spot. No single perspective is always right, and scripture reminds us all to check our pride: “He who is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone.” Rather than divisiveness, the spirit of Christ calls us to humility, appreciation, and encouragement—even toward those with whom we disagree.
Becoming a Barnabas in Today’s World
The story of Barnabas challenges us to reflect—who has been a Barnabas in your life? Perhaps it was a parent, a mentor, a pastor, or a friend who offered encouragement when others turned away. Maybe someone gave you time and patience in a season when you were not at your best, or they saw something in you others missed. God places these encouragers in our path because He knows we can’t walk this journey alone.
The call to be a Barnabas is for everyone. Encouragement doesn’t require a title or platform; it can be shared through a kind word, a text message, a phone call, or a simple note. The act of encouraging another is more than mere kindness—it’s a spiritual investment that brings value into someone else’s life. In fact, one definition of “appreciate” is to increase in value, as with a home or jewel. When you acknowledge the worth of someone, you help them “appreciate”—to grow in value in their own eyes and before God.
The Spiritual Discipline of Encouragement
Scripture repeatedly commands believers to “encourage one another and build each other up.” Encouragement is not a trivial pursuit in the Christian life. It’s essential. God counts it as a significant act whenever we express gratitude or appreciation, whether that’s for a major investment of time and prayer, or simply the right word spoken at the right moment. The smallest gestures can make the greatest impact—a note sent, a smile offered
