Barnabas the Son of Encouragement
Barnabas sells his land and lays the money at the apostles' feet, exemplifying the generous spirit and encouragement that characterized the early church.
Acts 4:32-37
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The Story
The multitude of believers in Jerusalem demonstrated a unity that transcended natural human tendencies. They were of one heart and one soul, neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own, but they had all things common.
The apostles gave witness with great power to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked, for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the prices and laid them down at the apostles' feet.
Among these generous believers, one man stood out. Joses, a Levite from Cyprus, was surnamed by the apostles 'Barnabas,' which means 'the son of consolation' or 'son of encouragement.' His new name revealed his character—this was a man who built others up.
Barnabas, having land, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. His gift was substantial—land represented security, inheritance, and status. Yet Barnabas valued the kingdom of God above earthly security. His example of generosity and encouragement would extend far beyond this gift—he would later encourage the church to receive the converted Saul and support John Mark when others wanted to abandon him.
Barnabas Shares Everything
Kids Version
After Jesus went back to heaven, something wonderful was happening in Jerusalem. All the people who believed in Jesus loved each other so much that they were like one big, happy family. They shared everything they had! If someone needed food, clothes, or a place to stay, other believers would help.
There was one special man named Joses, but everyone called him by a nickname: Barnabas. That nickname meant 'son of encouragement' because Barnabas was always saying kind things to people and helping them feel better.
Barnabas owned some land, which was very valuable. But Barnabas loved Jesus and his church family more than he loved money or land. One day, Barnabas made a big decision. He sold his land and got a lot of money for it. But instead of keeping the money for himself, do you know what he did? He took all that money and brought it to the apostles! He laid it right at their feet, saying, 'This isn't mine anymore—use it to help people who need it.'
Barnabas's gift helped many people in the church. But even more than the money, Barnabas's generous heart encouraged everyone else! When people saw how much Barnabas loved and trusted God, they wanted to be generous too. Barnabas showed everyone that when you really love Jesus, you want to share what you have and help others.
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Scripture — Acts 4:32-37 (KJV)
32And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
33And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.
34Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,
35And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need .
36And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,
37Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
Memory Verse
“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.”
— Acts 4:32 (KJV)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the story of “Barnabas the Son of Encouragement” in the Bible?
Barnabas sells his land and lays the money at the apostles' feet, exemplifying the generous spirit and encouragement that characterized the early church. This story is found in Acts 4:32-37.
Where is “Barnabas the Son of Encouragement” found in the Bible?
“Barnabas the Son of Encouragement” is found in Acts 4:32-37, in the book of Acts.
What can children learn from “Barnabas the Son of Encouragement”?
This story teaches children about Generosity, Encouragement, Unity, Sacrifice, Stewardship. A kind man named Barnabas sells his land and gives all the money to the apostles to help people in need, showing everyone what it means to be generous.