Barnabas was a leader in the early Christian church. His name means ‘Son of Encouragement.’ He is first mentioned in the book of Acts, for his outstanding example of generosity when he sold his field and gave the money to the apostles to distribute to those in need (Acts 4:32-37).

Barnabas was also the one who recommended the great apostle Paul to the Christian community. Paul, who was originally Saul of Tarsus, had been known for persecuting and killing Christians. It is understandable why many Christians are suspicious of his motives after his radical conversion experience and became a preacher of the gospel. It was Barnabas who stood by him and introduced him to the apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 9:27).

Barnabas was no respecter of persons. He stood up against Paul in defense of a young disciple, John Mark, who had left them halfway in their first missionary journey. Paul was not willing to give John Mark a second chance. But Barnabas thought differently from Paul. He insisted on bringing John Mark along. In the end, Paul and Barnabas went separate ways, with Barnabas taking John Mark under his wing. Later on, John Mark proved himself to be profitable to the Lord’s ministry. And Paul acknowledged that in his epistle (2 Tim 4:11).

Barnabas truly lived up to his name – a son of encouragement. Will you be a Barnabas for God’s sake? Team Barnabas is started for such a cause of encouragement. And we want especially to fellowship with and to encourage the elderly, sickly and those in the non-working community. We meet every Thursday (except public holidays) from 3 to 4 pm. The venue is not fixed. It may be in a member’s home, around a hospital bed, or out in an open field. Pl see table below for the specific venue.

There will always be someone in need of your encouragement. Will you be part of our team? If you need transport, please contact Karen Lee.

May God bless Team Barnabas. Amen.