Barnabas - A Favorite of Mine!

Acts 11:22  Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23  Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24  For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 25  Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:

I love Barnabas! You know, the believers changed his name, don't you? His given name was Joses. But this special servant of God was so big-hearted, such a wonderful encouragement to others, that they started calling him Barnabas, Son of Consolation.

That is huge!!!

This was a man who was full of the Holy Ghost, and it was evident! There was no guessing about if there was any fruit when it came to this brother.

He also was a man who could recognize the grace of God when he witnessed it. When he made it to Antioch, the church where the apostles held membership, he saw the evidence of God's great grace and was thrilled about it.

He stands out as an exhorter also. When he met with the Christians, called such first at Antioch, he began to encourage them in their work and faith. He spurred them to cling to God.

He was a good man, and full of faith. This godly man was like a magnet. During his ministry in Antioch, numerous souls were saved.

He was the epitome of what an evangelist was supposed to be: soul-winning, church-planting and saint-encouraging.

Any God loving soul would love this good and godly man. We should all strive to be more like him.

May God give us more brothers and sisters after the similitude of Barnabas!