Brother Stephen delivered a message emphasizing the importance of the early church's formative years. He highlighted the role of key figures like Barnabas, who served as a bridge between Paul and Peter, facilitating unity within the body of Christ. Barnabas, originally named Joseph, exemplified selflessness by selling his property to support the needy in the church. His faith allowed him to accept Paul, a former persecutor, and introduce him to the apostles, demonstrating the power of God's transformative love. Stephen noted that Barnabas's ministry was characterized by encouragement and establishing believers, particularly in Antioch, where the term "Christian" first emerged. He emphasized that the church should function as a network of sister churches rather than a hierarchical structure. Barnabas's humility and willingness to support others, including John Mark, showcased his big heart. Despite a disagreement with Paul over John Mark, Barnabas's legacy continued through the growth of the church and the eventual success of Mark. Stephen concluded by urging the need for more individuals like Barnabas in the church today, who foster unity and support the growth of others.
Introduction to the importance of the early church's formative years.
Role of Barnabas in bridging Paul and Peter.
Barnabas's selflessness and support for the needy.
Acceptance of Paul and the transformative power of God's love.
Ministry of encouragement and establishment of believers in Antioch.
Concept of sister churches versus hierarchical structures.
Barnabas's humility and support for John Mark.
Legacy of Barnabas and the need for similar figures in the church today.
19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.
1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. 20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.