20/10/2023
REMEMBER BARNABAS
Barnabas presents a wonderful example of how to help new Christians. He demonstrated strong faith; he ministered joyfully with kindness and encouragement; he taught new believers further lessons about God. Remember Barnabas when you see new believers, and think of ways to help them grow in their faith. Saul had been sent to his home in Tarsus for protection after his conversion had caused uproar among the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem. He stayed there for several years before Barnabas brought him to help the church at Antioch. The young church at Antioch was a curious mixture of Jews (who spoke Greek or Aramaic) and Gentiles. It is significant that this is the first place where the believers were called Christians (or "Christ-ones," "Christ-likes") because all they had in common was Christ - not race, culture, or even language. Christ's love crosses all boundaries and unites all people. Barnabas and Saul stayed at Antioch for a full year, teaching the new believers. They could have left for other cities, but they saw the importance of follow-up and training. Have you helped someone believe in Christ? Spend time teaching and encouraging that person. Are you a new believer? Remember, you are just beginning your Christian life. Your faith needs to grow and mature through consistent Bible study and teaching. Read Acts 11:22-26; 9:26-31; 13:43-49; 14:26-28; 15:36-41; 20:22-32