It’s a different world out there today. It seems the goal of this modern era is to make sure that everyone knows your name.
And in many ways this is understandable. Think about it, when was the last time you recognized a Vice President for being the second in command (beyond the current president)?
In looking at key leaders in the early church, we would probably focus on Paul, Peter, and John, who were movers and shakers in the early church.
But what about Barnabas?
It is believed that Barnabas from Acts 4 is the same Barnabas that we read about in the rest of the book of Acts (another man who went through a name change).
Known as an encourager, he was the one who brought Saul (later Paul) before the disciples when they were afraid he was tricking them.
He went to check on Antioch (Acts 11), went to look for Saul, and then was a part of much of the book of Acts as a co-laborer of Paul’s.
Who knows where the church would be if Barnabas wasn’t willing to set his ego aside as Paul became more famous? Who knows where Mark would have been if Barnabas wasn’t willing to stand up for him?
The Maxwell Study Bible shares three points about the servant leader Barnabas.
He had nothing to prove, nothing to lose, and nothing to hide.
Do a search on Barnabas in the New Testament and you will find quite a testimony to a child of God. His support not only helped launch Paul, but Mark and many others.
What if God calls you to be a Barnabas, someone whose for God is less visible that someone else’s. Is it enough to see the Lord’s kingdom grow even if you don’t get credit for the work you have done? Is it enough to hear when you stand before God, “well done, good and faithful servant,” or do you need more?
Along the Multicolored Road 
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