In thinking about different leaders found in Scripture, Barnabas stands out.

One of the reasons Barnabas was a great Bible leader is because of his example in generosity. The scripture indicates he sold some property and gave it to the apostles to help the needs of the early church.

However, his generosity is not what we want to notice about this great Bible leader.

Barnabas was the name given to Joseph, a Levite of Cyprian birth. By examining two specific incidents, we see why Joseph would have received this name, Barnabas, meaning Son of Encouragement.

First, after Paul’s conversion to Christianity, people were hesitant to believe the change, until Barnabas stood up and spoke for Paul.

Second, when Paul did not want to take John Mark on the next missionary journey, Barnabas was willing to give John Mark another chance.

In our leadership, we need to be like Barnabas. We need to be willing to stand up and speak for those who have changed their lives, and whenever possible, we need to give people another chance.

What an encouragement! What a need in leadership! Think Souls.