Men of the New Testament: "Barnabas" by Barrett Hammer - Part 3

June 24, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class This episode is a classroom-style exploration of Barnabas, the New Testament figure known as the "son of encouragement." Recorded as part of a summer teaching series, the speaker walks listeners through key passages in Acts (chapters 4, 9, 11, 13, and 15) to trace Barnabas’ life, ministry, and influence on the early church. Topics covered include Barnabas’ background (Joseph the Levite from Cyprus), his generosity in selling land to support believers, and his defining role encouraging and strengthening the church at Antioch. The episode looks closely at how Barnabas bridged the gap between the church and Saul (Paul), advocated for second chances (notably with John Mark), and helped develop emerging leaders—demonstrating humility, courage, and sacrificial support. Listeners will hear Scripture readings and practical illustrations, including personal anecdotes from the class (camp mailboxes of encouragement, Devo leadership) and contemporary analogies (nicknames and team roles) to highlight how encouragement functions as ministry. The class discusses why churches struggle to accept changed people, how encouragers see potential rather than past failures, and the risks and sacrifices involved in standing with the rejected. Contributors and voices in the discussion include the class leader and responses from members. The episode emphasizes five practical lessons: encouragement changes lives; godly people look beyond a person’s past; great leaders develop other leaders; encouragers also need courage; and godly people help restore failures. Expect a study grounded in Acts with clear, applicable takeaways for church life—how to give hope, mentor others, offer second chances, and use generosity and courage to advance spiritual growth in your community.   Duration 37:50