Empowering Others: The Transformative Power of Encouragement
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound impact of encouragement through the life of Barnabas, known as the "Son of Encouragement." Barnabas, though not as prominent as Peter, Paul, or Luke, played a crucial role in the early church by uplifting and supporting others. His gift of encouragement was instrumental in shaping the lives of key figures like Paul and John Mark, who went on to make significant contributions to the New Testament. Barnabas' life teaches us that encouragement is not about seeking the spotlight but about building others up and helping them realize their God-given potential.
Encouragement is more than just making people feel good; it is about strengthening their faith and helping them become who God has called them to be. In today's world, filled with weariness and division, the need for encouragement is greater than ever. We are called to be encouragers, not just in words but in actions, supporting each other through life's challenges. Criticism is easy, but true encouragement requires us to look deeper and see the good in others, recognizing the work God is doing in their lives.
Barnabas' example challenges us to be encouragers regardless of our age or understanding of the younger generation. Encouragement is about inspiring others with courage and confidence, actively participating in their growth, and planting seeds that God will water and grow. Barnabas took risks to encourage others, seeing potential where others saw failure. His encouragement led to the acceptance of Paul and the strengthening of the early church.
As we grow older, it is easy to become cynical, but we must choose to be encouragers, passing the torch to the next generation and supporting them in their journey. Encouragement is not about holding onto power or seeking titles but about recognizing and nurturing the potential in others. Barnabas' life reminds us that we don't need a title to make an impact; we just need a heart willing to encourage and uplift those around us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Encouragement: Encouragement is not about seeking the spotlight but about building others up and helping them realize their God-given potential. Barnabas' life exemplifies this, as his encouragement was instrumental in shaping the lives of key figures like Paul and John Mark. His gift of encouragement teaches us that we can have a profound impact on others by simply uplifting and supporting them. [12:48]
2. Encouragement in Troubling Times: In today's world, filled with weariness and division, the need for encouragement is greater than ever. Encouragement strengthens faith and helps individuals become who God has called them to be. It is not about stroking egos but about building up those who are weary and torn down by life's challenges. [15:42]
3. Encouragement Across Generations: Barnabas' example challenges us to be encouragers regardless of our age or understanding of the younger generation. Encouragement is about inspiring others with courage and confidence, actively participating in their growth, and planting seeds that God will water and grow. We must choose to support and uplift the next generation, even if we don't fully understand their ways. [22:47]
4. Encouragement Through Words and Actions: Words are powerful tools of influence, and we all have the power to be encouragers through our words and actions. Barnabas encouraged others through his words, and we are called to do the same. Whether through a text message, a handwritten letter, or a spoken word, we can use our words to uplift and strengthen those around us. [35:02]
5. Encouragement Without Titles: Barnabas' life reminds us that we don't need a title to make an impact. True leadership and influence come from a heart willing to encourage and uplift others. As we grow older, we must pass the torch to the next generation, supporting them in their journey and recognizing their potential. Encouragement is about recognizing the good in others and helping them achieve their God-given purpose. [29:46]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[09:22] - Introduction to Barnabas
[10:23] - Admiring Biblical Figures
[12:00] - The Role of Barnabas
[12:48] - Barnabas' Impact on the Early Church
[14:23] - Barnabas and Paul
[15:42] - The Importance of Encouragement
[18:21] - Looking Deeper to Encourage
[19:06] - Choosing Positivity
[20:39] - Encouraging the Next Generation
[22:47] - Barnabas' Challenge to Us
[24:14] - Barnabas' Risk with Paul
[26:29] - Barnabas and John Mark
[28:13] - Paul's Letters of Encouragement
[29:46] - Leadership and Encouragement
[32:06] - Barnabas' Humility
[35:02] - The Power of Words
[37:45] - Encouragement in the Church
[38:37] - Concluding Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 4:36-37 - "Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means 'son of encouragement'), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet."
2. Acts 9:26-27 - "When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus."
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 - "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
#### Observation Questions
1. What nickname did the apostles give to Joseph, and what does it mean? (Acts 4:36)
2. How did Barnabas support Saul when he first tried to join the disciples in Jerusalem? (Acts 9:26-27)
3. According to 1 Thessalonians 5:11, what are believers encouraged to do for one another?
4. What role did Barnabas play in the early church, and how did his actions impact key figures like Paul and John Mark? [12:48]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Barnabas was willing to take a risk on Saul when others were afraid of him? [24:14]
2. How does Barnabas' example challenge the common desire for recognition and titles within the church? [29:46]
3. In what ways does encouragement go beyond just making someone feel good, according to the sermon? [15:07]
4. How can the act of encouragement help in building up the faith of others, especially in today's weary and divided world? [15:42]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when someone encouraged you during a difficult period. How did their words or actions impact you, and how can you replicate that for someone else? [15:07]
2. Barnabas saw potential in people where others saw failure. Think of someone in your life who might need encouragement. What specific steps can you take to uplift and support them this week? [24:14]
3. Encouragement is not just about words but also actions. What are some practical ways you can encourage someone in your church or community this week? [35:02]
4. As we grow older, it can be easy to become cynical. How can you actively choose to be an encourager to the younger generation, even if you don't fully understand their ways? [22:47]
5. Barnabas didn't need a title to make an impact. How can you serve and encourage others in your church without seeking recognition or a formal position? [29:46]
6. Criticism is easy, but true encouragement requires looking deeper. How can you train yourself to see the good in others and recognize the work God is doing in their lives? [18:21]
7. Think of a specific person who tests your patience. What is a short prayer or action you can take before your next interaction with them to ensure you approach them with encouragement rather than criticism? [19:06]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Encouragement
Encouragement is not about seeking the spotlight but about building others up and helping them realize their God-given potential. Barnabas' life exemplifies this, as his encouragement was instrumental in shaping the lives of key figures like Paul and John Mark. His gift of encouragement teaches us that we can have a profound impact on others by simply uplifting and supporting them. Barnabas' actions were not about gaining recognition but about seeing the potential in others and helping them grow into their roles within the early church. His willingness to support and uplift others, even when it meant taking risks, shows us the true power of encouragement.
In our own lives, we can follow Barnabas' example by looking for opportunities to encourage those around us. This might mean offering a kind word, providing support during difficult times, or simply being present for someone who needs a friend. Encouragement is a powerful tool that can help others realize their potential and fulfill their God-given purpose. By choosing to be encouragers, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us. [12:48]
Acts 11:23-24 (ESV): "When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who could use encouragement today. How can you uplift and support them in a way that helps them realize their God-given potential?
Day 2: Encouragement in Troubling Times
In today's world, filled with weariness and division, the need for encouragement is greater than ever. Encouragement strengthens faith and helps individuals become who God has called them to be. It is not about stroking egos but about building up those who are weary and torn down by life's challenges. Barnabas' life shows us that true encouragement goes beyond mere words; it involves actions that demonstrate genuine care and support for others. By being encouragers, we can help others find strength and hope in the midst of difficult times.
As we navigate the challenges of our own lives, we can look for ways to be a source of encouragement to those around us. This might involve offering a listening ear, providing practical assistance, or simply being a positive presence in someone's life. By choosing to be encouragers, we can help others find the strength and faith they need to overcome their challenges and fulfill their God-given purpose. [15:42]
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
Reflection: In what ways can you offer encouragement to someone who is struggling with weariness or division in their life today? How can your actions demonstrate genuine care and support?
Day 3: Encouragement Across Generations
Barnabas' example challenges us to be encouragers regardless of our age or understanding of the younger generation. Encouragement is about inspiring others with courage and confidence, actively participating in their growth, and planting seeds that God will water and grow. We must choose to support and uplift the next generation, even if we don't fully understand their ways. Barnabas' willingness to take risks and see potential in others, even when others saw failure, shows us the importance of being encouragers across generations.
In our own lives, we can look for opportunities to encourage and support the younger generation. This might involve mentoring, offering guidance, or simply being a positive role model. By choosing to be encouragers, we can help the next generation grow into their God-given potential and fulfill their purpose. [22:47]
1 Timothy 4:12 (ESV): "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity."
Reflection: How can you actively participate in the growth and development of someone from a younger generation today? What specific actions can you take to inspire and encourage them?
Day 4: Encouragement Through Words and Actions
Words are powerful tools of influence, and we all have the power to be encouragers through our words and actions. Barnabas encouraged others through his words, and we are called to do the same. Whether through a text message, a handwritten letter, or a spoken word, we can use our words to uplift and strengthen those around us. Barnabas' life shows us that encouragement is not just about what we say, but also about how we act and the support we provide to others.
In our own lives, we can look for opportunities to use our words and actions to encourage those around us. This might involve offering a kind word, providing practical assistance, or simply being present for someone who needs support. By choosing to be encouragers, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us. [35:02]
Proverbs 16:24 (ESV): "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body."
Reflection: Think of someone who could use a kind word or a supportive action today. How can you use your words and actions to uplift and encourage them?
Day 5: Encouragement Without Titles
Barnabas' life reminds us that we don't need a title to make an impact. True leadership and influence come from a heart willing to encourage and uplift others. As we grow older, we must pass the torch to the next generation, supporting them in their journey and recognizing their potential. Encouragement is about recognizing the good in others and helping them achieve their God-given purpose. Barnabas' humility and willingness to support others, even without seeking recognition, shows us the true essence of encouragement.
In our own lives, we can look for opportunities to encourage and support others, regardless of our titles or positions. This might involve offering guidance, providing support, or simply being a positive presence in someone's life. By choosing to be encouragers, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us and help them fulfill their God-given purpose. [29:46]
1 Peter 5:5 (ESV): "Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'"
Reflection: How can you encourage and support someone today without seeking recognition or a title? What specific actions can you take to uplift and help them achieve their God-given purpose?
Quotes
1. "We all need a little bit of encouragement today, don't we? Amen. Each and every day, I don't care who you are, everyone needs to be encouraged. Who would you be if you could pick anybody in the Bible? Who would you select? Who would you want to be? Maybe you think and drift towards Peter. We've been talking a lot about Peter, you know, preacher on Pentecost who was fearlessly declared the gospel to thousands of people that had the keys of the kingdom." [10:23] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It's not about being the greatest. It's about being the least, and it's about being a servant. So if we were able to speak to them today, I know that the words would be not to inspire to be great like us, not to inspire to be of great notoriety to people to know your name, but to inspire to be a servant of the living God and not to try to achieve status today." [12:00] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Encouragement isn't just about making people feel better. It's not about stroking someone's ego or trying to promote somebody and puff them up. It's not all about that. It is about building them. Those that's been tore down, the weariness of life, it's a lot different in the day and hour that we live in than it was a hundred, a thousand, two thousand years ago. It's very different. The Bible prophesied of these times where they're weary times." [15:07] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Encouragement is about building each other up and strengthening our faith and helping them to become all that God has called them to be. It's hard to be what God called you to be without some form of encouragement in your life. And so I want you to pray with me today. We're not perfect people, we all make mistakes, we all have slip-ups, and it's during those low times and valleys that we walk in our life, where we need to be encouraged by our brothers and our sisters." [16:29] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "It takes the spirit of God for us to look deeper to see the good in others to see the work that God is doing in somebody whether it be small but yet God is still maybe performing a work in someone's life but it's not for us to judge another person's life, is it? To help bring it to the surface it's the difference between tearing down and building up between struggling sowing doubt among the brethren and instilling confidence among them you have the voice of revival." [18:21] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "You choose if you want to do something good deliverance in your life you can choose to have that deliverance you don't ever get the deliverance because you choose not to but you choose to avoid negativity you choose to be an encouragement we have to make that choice to be an encourager not in declaration only but in action as well as we grow older we're all getting a little bit older in here hello it's easy to be an encourager it's easy to become cynical especially when we've experienced disappointments in our life." [20:06] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Barnabas encouraged Paul became one of the greatest missionaries of all time he encouraged the church in Antioch they were strengthened and it was there that believers became to be known as followers of Christ John Mark was rejected one that wrote the book that wrote the book of Mark he was rejected by Paul but Barnabas didn't give up on him so John Mark went on to write the gospels of Mark later became or because of Barnabas tender encouragement." [26:58] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "You don't have to have a title to make an impact in the church as many young ministers need to learn you don't have to have a title to be used by God Barnabas clearly was not position minded or power hungry one of the things about my grandfather that many didn't know you knew him as your pastor many of you here that served underneath him and he was a great man but he was not position minded he literally was friends with superintendents of all generations general superintendents if he inspired to do it he could have excelled the ranks and went all the way up in the organization." [30:07] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Real test of leadership how a leader responds once he is no longer required in the spotlight many have turned into a chief disappointment got the acid test of an encourager is the ability to let someone else take the lead and get the credit our job especially as we get older is to plant the seeds past the mantle past the torch and we take on the role of an encourager it's not about taking the reins and taking control but it's about training the next generation passing the torch and letting them be equipped." [32:59] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Words are powerful words are of course is the most powerful drug used by mankind words are a powerful tools of influence of others all of us can speak words and so all of us have the power to be an encourager and a discourager Proverbs 25 and 11 Solomon spoke of the of words that are fitly spoken there is power in words the right words at the right time so encourage each other with these words 1 Thessalonians 4 and 18 so encourage each other and build each other up." [35:02] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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