Encouragement: The Powerful Force That Changes Lives

In a world filled with discouragement, we all need someone to believe in us. The story of Barnabas from the New Testament shows us that encouragement is far more than just positive words—it's a spiritual force that can transform lives and even shape history.

What is true biblical encouragement?

Encouragement in Scripture goes far beyond casual compliments or fluffy platitudes. It's not just saying "I like your sweater" or offering empty words. True biblical encouragement is deeply connected to the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.

The Greek word for encouragement is "paraklesis," which shares the same root as "parakletos"—one of the names for the Holy Spirit, meaning advocate, comforter, or helper. This connection reveals that genuine encouragement strengthens, comforts, and gives courage to others in a way that reflects God's own character.

Real encouragement costs something. It requires sacrifice, generosity, and trust. When we truly encourage others, we give up comfort, time, money, or pride to lift someone else up.

Who was Barnabas and why does his story matter?

Barnabas wasn't even his real name. He was born Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, but the apostles gave him the nickname "Barnabas," which literally means "son of encouragement." This nickname reveals the essence of who he was and how others experienced him.

In Acts 4:32-37, we see Barnabas selling a field he owned and bringing the money to the apostles. His encouragement wasn't just words—it was sacrificial action. He didn't just talk about supporting the early church; he demonstrated it through generous giving.

While he may not have had his own "action figure" like Paul or Peter, Barnabas played a crucial role in strengthening the heart of the gospel movement among second-generation Christians.

How did Barnabas see potential when others didn't?

One of the most significant moments in Barnabas's life came when Saul (later known as Paul) arrived in Jerusalem after his conversion. Acts 9:26-27 tells us that the disciples were afraid of Saul, not believing he was truly a follower of Christ.

But Barnabas took a chance on Saul when everyone else had written him off. He brought Saul to the apostles and vouched for him, explaining how Saul had encountered Jesus and was now preaching fearlessly in His name.

Imagine the courage this required—advocating for someone who had previously persecuted Christians! Barnabas saw past Saul's history and recognized his potential. He didn't define Saul by his past but by what God was doing in his life.

How does encouragement strengthen the church?

As the early church began to spread beyond Jerusalem, something remarkable happened in Antioch. Believers began sharing the gospel not just with Jews but with Gentiles as well, crossing significant cultural barriers.

When news of this reached Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas to investigate. Acts 11:23-24 tells us that when Barnabas arrived and saw evidence of God's grace, "he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts."

Barnabas recognized what God was already doing and joined in that work. He didn't try to make something happen; he was present enough to see God's movement and encourage it. This is a powerful reminder that God is already at work in people's lives long before we arrive on the scene.

Later, Barnabas went to find Saul in Tarsus and brought him to Antioch, where they taught together for a year. It was in Antioch that believers were first called "Christians"—literally "little Christs." How fitting that a church influenced by the "son of encouragement" would become known for reflecting Christ!

Why is giving second chances an essential part of encouragement?

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of Barnabas's ministry came when he and Paul disagreed about taking John Mark on their second missionary journey. Mark had deserted them during their first journey, and Paul didn't think it wise to take him again.

Acts 15:36-41 describes their "sharp disagreement" that led to them parting ways—Barnabas took Mark to Cyprus, while Paul chose Silas and went in another direction.

Barnabas stood by Mark even at the cost of separating from Paul. He believed in giving second chances and helping others recover from failure. This decision ultimately bore fruit—years later, in his final letter, Paul wrote that Mark was "helpful to me in my ministry" (2 Timothy 4:11).

This restoration not only saved Mark's ministry but multiplied the missionary work, as now two teams were spreading the gospel instead of one.

What impact did Barnabas have on Christianity?

• Though Barnabas never wrote any of the 27 books of the New Testament, his influence was profound:

• He brought Paul to the apostles when no one else would give him a chance

• He mentioned Mark after his failure

• Through his encouragement, Paul went on to write 24% of the New Testament

• Mark wrote the first Gospel, creating a new form of literature that influenced Matthew and Luke

Without Barnabas's encouragement, we might not have much of the New Testament as we know it today. His willingness to encourage others literally shaped Christian history.

Life Application: Becoming a Modern-Day Barnabas

In our world of criticism, comparison, and cancel culture, we desperately need more people like Barnabas. Here are some ways to apply his example to your life:

• Examine your nickname: If people gave you a nickname based on your personality, would it be "son/daughter of encouragement" or something less positive? What legacy are you leaving in people's hearts?

• Make your encouragement costly: When was the last time your encouragement cost you something? Ask God for eyes to see who is in need and be willing to respond with generosity, not just sympathy.

• Look for potential in others: Who have you written off that God hasn't? Is there someone in your life who just needs a Barnabas to say, "I believe in you"?

• Join God's work: Remember that God is already at work in people's lives. You don't have to make anything happen—just be present enough to recognize what's already happening and join in.

• Offer restoration: Is there someone God is asking you to restore or stand by? Your willingness to give second chances could be the difference between someone abandoning their faith and fulfilling their God-given purpose.

Remember, no one in your life is suffering from too much encouragement. Your words and actions of encouragement could be the very thing God uses to change someone's life—and perhaps even shape history.

Questions to consider this week:

• Who in my life needs encouragement right now?

• What discouragement has made me settle for less than God's best?

• How can I make my encouragement more than just words this week?

• Is there someone I need to give a second chance to?

• How might God be calling me to be a Barnabas in my church, workplace, or family?