Barnabas' Purpose, More Than it Seems at First Glance!

Karoline had much to share!

“Take what you need....”  Laurie led us in an ice breaker that had us passing around a roll of toilet paper, and taking what we might, well, need.  She then let us in on the second part of the instructions…. 

“Now tell us something about yourself for every square you took!”  This second instruction provoked laughter as well as gave some of us a chance to hear a quite a learn more about one another, including quite a bit more about our guest speaker, Reinier van den Berg! 

Guest Speaker-Reinier

After some time of worship by reading the Psalms, Reinier began with the following question, “Was the purpose of Barnabas to accompany Paul, so Paul wouldn’t be lonely during his travels?”  After reading the Scripture together we determined there was more to Barnabas than previously thought.   Barnabas was mentioned early in Acts, in fact in Acts 4.  From this section we saw Barnabas was part of the early church, his real name was Joseph and Barnabas was actually his nickname because he was such an encourager.  In the beginnings of the church in Jerusalem he also sold property to help support the church.  Later Barnabas noticed Paul preaching and brought him in to introduce Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem. 

As we began to look more in depth at Barnabas, many things stood out.  He was an encourager, was generous, he had a discerning spirit of the movement of God and he was ready when called to do something. 
   

What a crew!

So the questions that we can ask ourselves:   Are we already serving in a manner that brings glory to God?  Are we seeped in God’s Word and in prayer so that we can hear God’s voice?  Are we REALLY ready to say ‘YES’ when God calls on us to take action?  Thanks Reiner and greets to all who came.  To those unable to attend, “We missed you” and hope to see you next week Friday (Dec 9) for the PWCGHM!  Read all about it in the information to the right!  Till next time!