Barnabas

One of the training DVD's talked about the difference between encouragement and edification, using the story of Barnabas in the Bible as an example. (See Acts 9, 11, 13 & 14). Encouragement is what you say to someone to lift them up. Edification takes encouragement to the next level; to see the good in someone and build them up to others. One of the purposes of this mission trip is to edify the Indian church planters in their community. Paul would not have been as successful in his ministry to the Gentiles without Barnabas. Barnabas actually means "Son of Encouragement". A quote from my Bible notes: "Barnabas was drawn to people he could encourage, and he was a great help to those around him. Is is delightful that wherever Barnabas encouraged Christians, non-Christians flocked to become believers." He kind of paved the way for Paul. Barnabas would encourage people to listen to Paul, and Paul would speak. Our role is to be Barnabas. Something to reflect on!