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Acts 4:36
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34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; afor all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,  
35 aand laid them at the apostles’ feet; band they distributed to each as anyone had need.  
36 And1 Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of2 Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus,  
37 ahaving land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 
Commentaries:
Forerunner Commentary
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<< Acts 4:35   Acts 4:37 >>

What Does Acts 4:36 Mean?



Acts 4:36

In Acts 4:36 Luke translates Barnabas to mean "son of encouragement" or "son of consolation." The original Greek word rendered "encouragement," paraklesis, means encouragement, consolation, comfort, exhortation, and entreaty. It may be that the apostles who gave Joseph the name Barnabas, saw all of these qualities in his character.

What was it that Barnabas did so well? Paul writes that it is a minister's responsibility to be encouraging to God's church. Ministers are sent "to establish and encourage [us] concerning our faith" (I Thessalonians 3:2-3). Barnabas wisely encouraged people by pointing them in the right direction—toward the coming Kingdom of God. All the members in Antioch he "encouraged . . . that with a purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord" (Acts 11:23).

Martin G. Collins
Barnabas: Son of Encouragement and Consolation

Related Topics: Barnabas | Encouragement | Ministry of Reconciliation | Ministry, Responsibility of | Paraklesis | Pastor's Responsibility | Pastor's Responsibility as Counseling | Son of Consolation | Son of Encouragement




Other Forerunner Commentary entries containing Acts 4:36:

Acts 4:36
Acts 5:1-10


 
<< Acts 4:35   Acts 4:37 >>

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