Who was Barnabas?

Encouraging companion

The story of Barnabas

Barnabas - Apostle
Barnabas - Apostle
Apostle

Barnabas was a biblical figure who was a companion of the Apostle Paul and a leader in the early Christian church. He was born in Cyprus and was a Levite, the son of Joses and the brother of Mark. He was a wealthy man who sold his land and gave the proceeds to the church. He was known for his generosity and his encouragement of others. Barnabas was a key figure in the early church. He was the one who introduced Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem and vouched for him. He was also the one who convinced the apostles to accept Gentiles into the church. He was a missionary and traveled with Paul on his first missionary journey. He was also a teacher and mentor to Paul and the other apostles. Barnabas is best known for his encouragement and support of others. He was a peacemaker and was willing to put himself in danger to help others. He was a great example of Christian love and service. He is remembered for his faithfulness and his willingness to serve the Lord.

Name meaning

"Son of consolation" or "son of encouragement"

Name origin

Aramaic

Role

Apostle

First mention

The Acts of the Apostles 4:36

Appearances in the Bible

28 mentions

Barnabas in the Bible

Explore all 10 chapters where Barnabas appears

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 4

The Arrest and Release of Peter and John

The apostles are arrested again, but an angel frees them from prison and they continue to preach.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 9

The Conversion of Saul on the Road to Damascus

Paul is arrested and brought to trial in Jerusalem, but he escapes to Tarsus.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 11

Peter Defends His Actions to the Jerusalem Council

Peter defends his actions before the council, and the Gentile converts are accepted into the church.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 12

The Arrest and Escape of Peter

King Herod kills James and imprisons Peter, but an angel frees him.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 13

The First Missionary Journey of Paul and Barnabas

Paul and Barnabas are set apart for missionary work and begin their first journey.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 14

The Second Missionary Journey of Paul and Silas

Paul and Barnabas continue their missionary work, facing opposition and performing miracles.

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The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 15

The Jerusalem Council

The council at Jerusalem decides that Gentile converts do not have to follow Jewish customs.

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1 Corinthians

Chapter 9

The Rights of an Apostle

Paul teaches about his own rights as an apostle and the importance of not using them for his own benefit.

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Galatians

Chapter 2

Justification by Faith

Paul recounts his confrontation with Peter over the issue of Gentile converts being compelled to follow Jewish customs. ...

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Colossians

Chapter 4

Christian Conduct and Relationships

Paul instructs the Colossians on how to conduct themselves as Christians, including how to treat each other, how to comm...

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Showing all 10 chapter appearances