"And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus" (Acts 9:26-27).
After Saul (Paul) the persecutor was converted he began to increase in strength and boldly preach Jesus. But when he attempted to go up to Jerusalem the disciple were afraid of him and were reluctant to embrace him as a disciple. But Barnabas stood up on Paul's behalf and encouraged the disciples in Jerusalem to believe in him. Barnabas, which was the nick name given to him by the Apostles, meant son of encouragement. He believed in others when no one else would.
Years later when Barnabas and Paul were ready to go on a second missionary journey, Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them, but Paul did not agree. On an earlier missionary journey Mark had jumped ship. No doubt Paul believed that Mark was not qualified for the new work due to his previous lack of faithfulness. But Barnabas stood true to his nature and decided to give Mark a second chance. The future writings of Paul would indicate that Mark got his act together a became very profitable in the ministry. Perhaps its was the encouragement from Barnabas, who believe in him that was a key turning point in his life. Do you know someone that needs you to believe in them? Be an encourager
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