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Barnabas
Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus, sold his field to help the early Church. He introduced Paul to the apostles and accompanied him on his first missionary journey. His real name was Joseph, but he was nicknamed "son of encouragement".
Read the full story of BarnabasJourney Timeline
Early Believer in Jerusalemc. 30-33 AD
JerusalemJoseph, a Levite from Cyprus, becomes an early believer. The apostles nickname him Barnabas, meaning 'Son of Encouragement.' He sells a field and lays the money at the apostles' feet, modeling generous sharing.
ACT 4:36-37Vouching for Saulc. 37 AD
JerusalemWhen the converted Saul comes to Jerusalem, believers are afraid of him. Barnabas takes Saul, brings him to the apostles, and tells them how Saul met Jesus and preached boldly in Damascus. Barnabas' sponsorship opens doors.
ACT 9:26-28Sent to Antiochc. 43 AD
AntiochWhen news reaches Jerusalem that Greeks in Antioch are believing, the church sends Barnabas to investigate. He sees God's grace and encourages them to remain true to the Lord. A great number of people are added.
ACT 11:19-24Bringing Saul to Antiochc. 43-44 AD
AntiochRecognizing the need for help, Barnabas travels to Tarsus to find Saul. He brings Saul to Antioch, where they teach together for a year. It is here that disciples are first called 'Christians.'
ACT 11:25-26Famine Relief Missionc. 46 AD
JerusalemDuring a famine predicted by Agabus, Antioch sends relief to Jerusalem believers through Barnabas and Saul. After delivering the gift, they return with John Mark, Barnabas' cousin.
ACT 11:27-30; 12:25Jerusalem Councilc. 49 AD
JerusalemBarnabas and Paul go to Jerusalem to address whether Gentiles must be circumcised. They report what God has done among the Gentiles. The council affirms Gentile freedom from the Law, validating their ministry.
ACT 15:1-35Dispute Over John Markc. 49 AD
JerusalemBarnabas wants to take John Mark on the second journey, but Paul refuses because Mark had abandoned them earlier. The disagreement is sharp. They part ways: Paul takes Silas; Barnabas takes Mark to Cyprus.
ACT 15:36-41Ministry in Cyprusc. 49-60 AD
JerusalemBarnabas continues ministry in his homeland of Cyprus with Mark. His investment in Mark proves fruitful: Mark later becomes valuable to Paul and writes the Gospel of Mark. Barnabas' patient discipleship bears lasting fruit.
ACT 15:39; 2TI 4:11
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