Remain True to the Lord: Barnabas and the Grace of God - Acts 11:22-24

Commentary

Revd. Mark Fletcher: I think Barnabas is wonderful, actually. I think he’s one of the unsung heroes of the early church. There’s a lovely description of him in verse 24: He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. Isn’t that a lovely picture of a godly man who builds the church by selflessly doing what is needed most? He doesn’t push himself forward. He goes to serve. That’s the kind of leadership that Jesus calls for. And when he arrived, verse 23, and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad, and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all of their hearts. That was Barnabas’ message to them, and it’s his message to you too. Have you caught a glimpse of the grace of God at work in your lives and in your community? Then be glad and rejoice. Have you seen the good news being preached, people’s lives being changed, new communities of faith being built? Rejoice, and remain true to the Lord with all your hearts.