22/06/2026
Acts 11:23 NASB1995
[23] Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord;
Some of the who believers were scattered at the death of Stephen, went to Cyprus and Antioch(19). The church in Jerusalem sends Barnabas to the church in Antioch(22). Barnabas a good man filled with the Holy Spirit and faith, sees God's grace at work(23,24). Barnabas observes a church that is growing by grace, He encourages and sees a need for teaching and preaching(23,26).
-Barnabas witnesses growth in numbers and in maturity. Barnabas seeks out Paul for teaching, because people that have heard the Gospel require more teaching, as they mature in faith. He encourages and discerns by the Holy Spirit it is not mere speculation.
-Churches report on growth all the time. For some churches it's all about the numbers.
How many church members know the gospel? What is the maturity of the congregation?
Is the church growth artificial or is it God's grace at work?
- The gospel must be shared and preached, even in a church of maturity.
- Gifted teachers with good character and reputation are needed in every church.
- Barnabas was an encourager. All church members should strive to encourage one another in faith. For some people encouragement is a spiritual gift.
-Everything that happens in church requires the work of the Holy Spirit. Evangelism,teaching, preaching and encouragement all require the work of the person called The Holy Spirit. Church does not happen without God, even though it is for God and for us.
-We have a duty as Christians to check that what happens in our churches is biblical. Many people claim to be Spirit-led but their preaching, teaching, character and reputation do not meet biblical standards.
Let us be like Barnabas and encourage one another.
Lord we don't always see what you are doing. You make us grow. In Jesus'name.Amen.
