Quote:
Originally Posted by Ohio
Great point, brother Steve. Let's not also forget the tremendous role Barnabas had in bringing "that hated and feared Saul" into the ministry, which has blessed all God's people for centuries. Barnabas also forfeited his right to marriage in order to serve the Lord well pleasingly.
|
Exactly who was Barnabas?
"
Now Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth, who was also called Barnabas by the apostles (which translated means Son of Encouragement), and who owned a tract of land, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet." Acts 4:36-37
While known as Saul, he was the chief persecutor of Christians. Following Saul's conversion, many Christians probably that it to be a ruse. In Acts 9:26-27,
"
When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had talked to him, and how at Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus. "
I have heard it suggested when Barnabas and Paul parted was due to John-Mark, since Barnabus was no longer mentioned, Barnabus was no longer used by God. Can you believe that?
I suggest this, quite possibly Barnabus and Paul did not cross paths again. Perhaps partly due to Paul's imprisonment. Rather Barnabus' time with John-Mark was to shepherd John-Mark so he might be a useful brother as we see later on in Paul's epistles.
"
Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you his greetings; and also Barnabas’s cousin Mark (about whom you received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him);" Colossians 4:10
"
Only Luke is with me. Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service." 2 Timothy 4:11
"
as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow workers." Philemon 1:24