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)
Barnabas wasn't just called "son of encouragement"; this new name, given by the apostles, highlighted his natural gift for uplifting others, a spiritual calling that deeply impacted the early church. His role as a Levite, historically tied to temple service, and his Cypriot background, likely shaped his unique perspective, making him a vital bridge between different Jewish factions and the growing Gentile inclusion.
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)
In the wake of the apostles Peter and John's bold stand before the Sanhedrin, the early church experienced a surge of unity and generosity. This spirit is exemplified by Joseph, later known as Barnabas, who sold a valuable possession and brought the proceeds to support the community, demonstrating a deep commitment to sharing resources as the believers lived "of one heart and of one soul."
What's in a name? For Barnabas, his new name wasn't just a nickname – it was a divine appointment, revealing a core spiritual gift.
The apostles gave Joseph a new name: Barnabas. This name, interpreted as "son of encouragement" or "son of consolation," wasn't a casual label. It pointed to a profound spiritual gift that Barnabas possessed and demonstrated throughout his ministry.
Imagine a spiritual leader coming from an island known for its pagan influences, yet rooted in the Levitical tradition. How did this background shape Barnabas?
Barnabas wasn't a native of Jerusalem; he hailed from the island of Cyprus. This detail is significant for several reasons:
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In a community sharing everything, one man stands out for his radical sacrifice. What does his act tell us about true Christian giving?
The context in Acts 4:32-35 describes the early church practicing radical generosity, selling possessions and laying the proceeds at the apostles' feet to meet everyone's needs. Barnabas is presented as a prime example of this spirit.
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.
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.
Barnabas's identity as a Levite from Cyprus highlights how God uses people from diverse backgrounds and locations to advance His kingdom, showing that even those from the diaspora could play crucial roles in the early church.
c. 5 BC
Herod the Great leases Cyprus mines
Augustus Caesar leases the copper mines of Cyprus to Herod the Great, encouraging a significant Jewish settlement on the island.
c. 5 BC - AD 5
Barnabas born in Cyprus
Joseph, later known as Barnabas, is born into a Jewish family on Cyprus, likely benefiting from the island's flourishing Jewish community.
c. AD 25-30— this verse
Barnabas in Jerusalem
Barnabas comes to Jerusalem, possibly for religious festivals, and becomes a follower of Jesus. He is identified as a Levite and a native of Cyprus.
c. AD 30-33
Barnabas sells his land
Barnabas sells a piece of his property in Cyprus and gives the proceeds to the apostles to support the early Christian community in Jerusalem.
c. AD 33
Saul's conversion
Saul of Tarsus, who would later become the Apostle Paul, converts to Christianity after a dramatic encounter on the road to Damascus.
c. AD 44-47
First missionary journey
Barnabas and Paul embark on their first major missionary journey, traveling through Cyprus and parts of Asia Minor.
This passage shows Jesus giving new names to his disciples, just as the apostles surnamed Joseph 'Barnabas,' highlighting the significance of transformed identity and purpose in following Christ.
Acts 11:22-26This narrative directly showcases Barnabas's role as an encourager and builder-up of the church, demonstrating his character as the 'son of encouragement' by bringing Paul to Antioch and nurturing the new Gentile believers.
1 Corinthians 14:3This verse defines prophecy as speaking for edification, encouragement, and comfort, which directly aligns with the meaning and implication of Barnabas's name, 'son of encouragement'.
Galatians 2:11-14This passage reveals a moment where Barnabas, despite his positive qualities, was influenced by others, showing that even those with encouraging gifts are still human and need correction, making his character relatable and real.
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 wasn't just called "son of encouragement"; this new name, given by the apostles, highlighted his natural gift for uplifting others, a spiritual calling that deeply impacted the early church. His role as a Levite, historically tied to temple service, and his Cypriot background, likely shaped his unique perspective, making him a vital bridge between different Jewish factions and the growing Gentile inclusion.
In the wake of the apostles Peter and John's bold stand before the Sanhedrin, the early church experienced a surge of unity and generosity. This spirit is exemplified by Joseph, later known as Barnabas, who sold a valuable possession and brought the proceeds to support the community, demonstrating a deep commitment to sharing resources as the believers lived "of one heart and of one soul."
In the wake of the apostles Peter and John's bold stand before the Sanhedrin, the early church experienced a surge of unity and generosity. This spirit is exemplified by Joseph, later known as Barnabas, who sold a valuable possession and brought the proceeds to support the community, demonstrating a deep commitment to sharing resources as the believers lived "of one heart and of one soul."
"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 wasn't just called "son of encouragement"; this new name, given by the apostles, highlighted his natural gift for uplifting others, a spiritual calling that deeply impacted the early church.…
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Last reviewed October 2026