Acts 4:36-37
Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement," wasn't just a title; it was a testament to a profound gift of the Spirit—the ability to offer comfort, counsel, and admonition. This insight challenges us to see that spiritual gifts are not merely passive traits but active abilities that shape how we minister to others. His very identity, rooted in his role as a "son of encouragement," highlights the vital importance of empathy and uplifting speech in the life of the church.
In the early Jerusalem church, following a miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit, believers lived in radical community, sharing all their possessions. This generosity is exemplified by Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles renamed Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement," likely due to his comforting and inspiring ministry.
Why did the apostles give Joseph a new name, Barnabas? It wasn't just a nickname; it was a divine affirmation of his spiritual gift.
The apostles, guided by the Holy Spirit, recognized and affirmed Joseph's unique spiritual gifting by bestowing upon him the name Barnabas. This name, meaning 'son of encouragement' or 'son of exhortation,' wasn't just a label; it was a prophetic declaration of his ministry's impact.
Barnabas wasn't a native Jerusalemite. His background as a Levite from Cyprus made him uniquely positioned to connect different worlds.
Barnabas's identity as a Levite from Cyprus, a Gentile-dominated island, reveals his crucial role as a bridge-builder in the early church. His background offered a perspective that helped the church expand its vision beyond its Jewish origins.
Understand the original words
Leuitēs · Greek Noun
A member of the tribe of Levi, specifically set apart by God for priestly and temple service. They were dedicated to the ministry of the tabernacle and later the temple, serving as representatives of the people before God and ministers of the law.
epiklētheis · Greek Participle/Verb
A term of address or title given by the early church leadership. It indicates an official designation or a descriptive title recognized and bestowed by the Apostles, signifying a role of authority or character that carries weight within the community of believers.
apostolōn · Greek Noun
Refers to the authorized messengers and witnesses sent by Jesus Christ. They were foundational figures in the early church, endowed with apostolic authority to teach, govern, and testify to the resurrection of Christ.
Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus, stands out in the early church not only for his generous spirit but also for his role in bridging the gap between Jewish and Gentile believers, especially during the crucial period of the church's expansion beyond its Jewish roots.
c. 73 AD
Destruction of Jerusalem and Second Temple
The Roman Empire, under Titus, destroys Jerusalem and the Second Temple, marking a catastrophic loss for Jewish identity and religious practice. This event profoundly impacted Jewish communities worldwide, leading to further dispersion and a re-evaluation of their faith and traditions.
c. 40-50 AD— this verse
First Missionary Journeys
Barnabas, alongside Paul, embarks on significant missionary journeys, evangelizing in regions like Cyprus, Asia Minor, and Antioch. These journeys spread the Christian message to both Jewish and Gentile communities.
c. 48 AD
Council of Jerusalem
A pivotal council addresses the inclusion of Gentiles into the Christian faith without requiring adherence to Jewish law. Barnabas plays a crucial role in advocating for Gentile believers, highlighting the expanding nature of the early church.
c. 50 AD
Disagreement between Paul and Barnabas
This passage shows Barnabas being sent to Antioch and seeking out Paul, demonstrating Barnabas's initiative in ministry and his close association with Paul, reinforcing his role as a key leader.
Galatians 2:1-10This passage highlights Barnabas's standing among the apostles, particularly his role in advocating for the inclusion of Gentiles, showcasing his forward-thinking and supportive nature within the early church.
1 John 4:8This verse states 'God is love,' which echoes the spirit of Barnabas, the 'son of encouragement,' emphasizing that true Christian character, like Barnabas', is deeply rooted in God's own loving nature.
Proverbs 11:25This proverb states 'Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered,' which beautifully reflects the generous spirit of Barnabas, who sold his property to support the early church, living out this principle of sowing blessing.
ellicottActs 4:36: "And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,"
(36) And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas. —The better MSS. give the name as Joseph. It is possible, as Rabbinic writers often give Jose for Joseph, that both were but different forms, like Simon and Simeon, of the same name. The later friendship between the Levite of Cyprus and St. Paul makes it probable that there had…
barnesActs 4:36: "And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,"
And Joses - Many manuscripts, instead of "Joses," here read "Joseph." The reasons why this individual is selected and specified particularly were, doubtless, because he was a foreigner; because it was a remarkable instance of liberality; and because he subsequently distinguished himself in the work of the ministry. He gave himself, his…
Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement," wasn't just a title; it was a testament to a profound gift of the Spirit—the ability to offer comfort, counsel, and admonition. This insight challenges us to see that spiritual gifts are not merely passive traits but active abilities that shape how we minister to others. His very identity, rooted in his role as a "son of encouragement," highlights the vital importance of empathy and uplifting speech in the life of the church.
In the early Jerusalem church, following a miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit, believers lived in radical community, sharing all their possessions. This generosity is exemplified by Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles renamed Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement," likely due to his comforting and inspiring ministry.
In the early Jerusalem church, following a miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit, believers lived in radical community, sharing all their possessions. This generosity is exemplified by Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles renamed Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement," likely due to his comforting and inspiring ministry.
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Ask a follow-up
Ask Sola things like:
Live chat about Acts 4:36-37 is available in the Sola app.
paraklēseōs · Greek Noun
In a biblical context, this refers to a gift of the Holy Spirit characterized by comforting, exhorting, consoling, and strengthening others in their faith. It is the active ministry of lifting up others toward godliness and perseverance.
para tous podas... ethēken · Greek Phrase (Verb phrase)
An act of surrender and submission to the governing authority of the church. Laying possessions at the feet of the leaders signifies the voluntary relinquishing of ownership for the purpose of communal stewardship and divine order.
A dispute arises between Paul and Barnabas over taking John Mark on a subsequent missionary journey, leading to their separation. Barnabas, with Mark, sails to Cyprus, his native land, continuing his ministry.
c. 60s AD
Composition of the Epistle to the Hebrews (Possible Authorship)
Some scholars suggest Barnabas may have authored the Epistle to the Hebrews, potentially as a means to explain Paul's theology to Jewish Christians. While debated, this possibility underscores his intellectual and spiritual contributions.
"Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet." — Barnabas, meaning "son of encouragement," wasn't just a title; it was a testament to a profound gift of the Spirit—the ability to offer comfort, counsel, and admonition. This insight challenges us to…
