Living ActsSample

Reflection

Every good story needs people who know how to build bridges. In Acts 11, that person is Barnabas.

By now, rumours are spreading fast. Peter has been eating with non-Jews. Gentiles are receiving the Holy Spirit. For some, this feels exciting. For others, deeply unsettling. The church in Jerusalem wants to know what is really going on, so they send Barnabas.

They choose him carefully. Barnabas is trusted. He is a good man, full of faith and the Holy Spirit. His name means ‘son of encouragement’, and he lives up to it. When he arrives in Antioch, he does not criticise or control. He recognises the grace of God already at work and rejoices.

Antioch is a busy, diverse city where cultures collide. Here, something new is forming. For the first time, followers of Jesus are called Christians, ‘little Christs’. Not because of a programme or a strategy, but because their lives reflect Jesus.

Barnabas understands that movements grow through relationships. He brings Paul out of obscurity, invites him into leadership, and helps shape this growing church. Barnabas does not need the spotlight. He is confident enough to release others.

Acts 11 challenges us to consider our part in God’s story. Are we people who encourage, connect, and affirm what God is doing? Do we recognise grace in unexpected places?

The church grows best when people of character choose encouragement over control, and humility over recognition.

Challenge

Today, intentionally encourage someone. It could be a fellow Christian or someone who is not yet following Jesus. Affirm what you see God doing in them.

Prayer

God, shape my character.

Help me recognise your grace and become someone who encourages and builds others up.

Amen.