### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The name **Barnábas** `{{G921}}`, of Chaldee origin, means "son of prophecy." Appearing **29 times** in the Bible, this name was given to an Israelite Levite from Cyprus, originally named Joses `{{G2500}}`. The apostles surnamed him Barnabas, which is interpreted as "The son of consolation" `{{G3874}}`, a title that would define his character and ministry in the early church [[Acts 4:36]].
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Barnabas plays a pivotal role in the book of Acts. He is first introduced as a generous believer who sold his land to support the church [[Acts 4:36]]. Critically, it was Barnabas who vouched for the newly converted Saul (later Paul) when the apostles were afraid of him, declaring how Saul had preached boldly in Damascus [[Acts 9:27]]. The church in Jerusalem later sent Barnabas to Antioch; after seeing the grace `{{G5485}}` of God there, he sought out Saul to join him in the ministry ([[Acts 11:22]], [[Acts 11:25]]). Together, they were separated by the Holy `{{G40}}` Spirit `{{G4151}}` for missionary work [[Acts 13:2]], faced persecution `{{G1375}}` together [[Acts 13:50]], and were even called apostles `{{G652}}` [[Acts 14:14]]. Their partnership ended in a sharp contention over taking Mark `{{G3138}}` on a journey, leading them to separate [[Acts 15:39]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several key individuals and concepts are closely related to the life of Barnabas:
* `{{G3972}}` **Paûlos** (Paul): Barnabas's primary partner in ministry, with whom he undertook the first missionary journey [[Acts 13:2]] and stood before the Jerusalem council [[Acts 15:2]].
* `{{G3138}}` **Márkos** (Mark): The sister's son of Barnabas [[Colossians 4:10]]. Barnabas's determination `{{G1011}}` to take Mark with them led to his separation from Paul [[Acts 15:37-39]].
* `{{G3874}}` **paráklēsis** (consolation): The interpreted meaning of his name given by the apostles, signifying his role as an encourager and source of solace [[Acts 4:36]].
* `{{G652}}` **apóstolos** (apostle): A title used for Barnabas and Paul, defining them as official commissioners and ambassadors of the Gospel [[Acts 14:14]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of Barnabas is profound, highlighting several key themes of the early church.
* **The Son of Consolation:** True to his name, Barnabas consistently acted as an encourager. He brought Saul into the fellowship `{{G2842}}` of the apostles when others were suspicious [[Acts 9:27]] and was sent to oversee and encourage the fledgling church in Antioch [[Acts 11:22]].
* **Apostolic Ministry and Partnership:** Barnabas was set apart by the Holy Spirit alongside Paul for a specific work `{{G2041}}` [[Acts 13:2]]. They ministered `{{G3008}}`, taught `{{G1321}}`, and preached `{{G2097}}` together, demonstrating a powerful model of collaborative ministry [[Acts 15:35]].
* **Champion of Others:** His willingness to give John Mark a second chance, despite his earlier failure, reveals a deep commitment to restoration. This advocacy led to a sharp contention `{{G3948}}` with Paul but ultimately resulted in two separate missionary endeavors [[Acts 15:39]].
* **Bridge to the Gentiles:** Barnabas was a crucial figure in the church's mission to the Gentiles `{{G1484}}`. He was entrusted by the Jerusalem church to investigate the work in Antioch and partnered with Paul to declare to the leadership what God had wrought among them [[Acts 15:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G921}}` Barnabas was a foundational leader whose influence was critical to the growth of the early church. While often remembered for his partnership with Paul, he was a prophet `{{G4396}}`, teacher `{{G1320}}`, and apostle `{{G652}}` in his own right. His character as the "son of consolation" is demonstrated through his generosity, his bold acceptance of a converted Saul, and his restorative confidence in John Mark. His life illustrates the vital importance of encouragement, faithful partnership, and grace in Christian ministry.
TRV