Barnabas Gathering

Barnabas was a very remarkable man in the New Testament. He might not be considered as one of the Twelve Apostles but without him, we would probably not have had Paul’s fruitful ministry and the benefit of his many Epistles. The apostles chose the perfect Christian name for Joses of Cyprus when they called him Barnabas—Son of Encouragement. His original name was Joses or Joseph, a Levite by family background and a wealthy landowner from Cyprus. He was so well regarded in the early Church for his encouragement of others that his name was changed from Joses to Barnabas. Every appearance of Barnabas in Scripture finds him encouraging others in the faith. He became an advocate and guide for Saul, the former enemy and persecutor of the early movement. 

Over time, with Barnabas’ coaching and encouragement, Paul became the central figure in the early spread of the gospel. Numerous churches can trace their beginnings back to the efforts of Barnabas. He serves as a model for how to mentor young believers and encourage missionaries. An interesting insight: though Levites traditionally lived off the temple system, Barnabas had real estate. But on coming into the faith, he sold it and donated the proceeds for the care of the poor (Acts 4:36–37). Later, he joined with Paul in refusing to make a living from the gospel (1 Cor. 9:6). He became a vital part of the much needed support network for the missionary efforts of the early Church. 

We are delighted to name our annual gathering of friends, family and donors after this great man of God. We invite you to a Barnabas lifestyle! We trust you will get up close and discover ways you too can continue to make an impact where it counts, giving unreached people an opportunity to hear the goodnews.