Reaction of the Jerusalem church

“The news about them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas off to Antioch.” (1) As many Gentile believers were added to the church, there was a risk of the population balance within the church being disrupted, leading to potential chaos. Therefore, the Jerusalem church, as the mother church, decided to send Barnabas. (2) Barnabas was a Levite, a Hellenistic Jew from the Diaspora, and an apostle, who was highly trusted. The Jerusalem church sent the right person for the task. “Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and faith. And considerable numbers were added to the Lord.” (1) Barnabas was convinced that the salvation of the Gentiles was by the grace of God. Grace is the source of joy. (2) Barnabas encouraged the brothers. While NASB2020 renders as “began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord,” ASV renders as “he exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.” NIV translated as “encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.” Among these, NIV is the easiest to read. (3) After an inspiring spiritual experience, a null can follow. For those living in a pagan city, temptations are inevitable. Barnabas, aware of this, encouraged the new believers. (4) The character of Barnabas can be described in three ways: (a) He was a good man. (b) He was full of the Holy Spirit. (c) He was full of faith. “And considerable numbers were added to the Lord.” Or as the ASV rendition, “And much people was added unto the Lord.” As the church’s numbers grew, the Antioch church became a mix of both Jewish and Gentile believers. Barnabas likely stayed in Antioch and continued serving there for about two years. When the work became too much for him alone, he decided to invite Saul to join him. God’s plan is progressing without hindrance. Let us remember that it is only our unbelief that can obstruct God’s work and let us confess our trust in God.