The Transformative Power of Presence and Encouragement

Devotional

Day 1: The Power of Encouraging Presence

Barnabas, known as the "Son of Encouragement," demonstrates that faithful presence and encouragement can transform lives and advance God's mission in ways that public gifts or recognition cannot. His willingness to stand with Saul, despite Saul's past and the suspicions of others, shows how believing in someone and vouching for them can unleash their God-given potential. Barnabas risked his own reputation to advocate for Saul, helping the early church accept him and opening the door for Saul's ministry to flourish. This act of encouragement was not just a kind gesture; it was a pivotal moment in redemptive history, reminding us that our words and presence can have far-reaching impact in the lives of others. [11:40]

Acts 4:36 (ESV)
"Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus,"

Reflection: Who is someone in your life who needs encouragement or someone to stand with them right now? How can you intentionally offer your presence and support to them this week, even if it means taking a risk?

Day 2: Freedom from the Shackles of the Past

Through Barnabas' advocacy, Saul was able to move about freely among the believers, no longer defined by his past but living in the freedom Christ provides. Many of us know what it is to be haunted by our past mistakes or failures, feeling as if we are disqualified from fully participating in God's work. Yet, the presence and affirmation of others can help us step into the freedom Jesus has purchased for us, breaking the chains of shame and regret. Sometimes, we need someone to remind us of the truth we already know: in Christ, we are free. Let us be those who help others walk in that freedom, and let us receive it for ourselves. [14:18]

Acts 9:26-28 (ESV)
"And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord."

Reflection: Is there a part of your past that still feels like it has a hold on you? Who can you invite to walk with you in prayer and encouragement as you step into the freedom Christ offers?

Day 3: Using Power to Elevate Others

Barnabas models a Christlike use of power—not to elevate himself, but to lift others up and help them flourish in their calling. When the time came, Barnabas willingly took a lower seat so that Paul could step into greater leadership, showing that true spiritual authority is exercised for the benefit of others. In a world that often values self-promotion, Barnabas' humility and generosity with his influence point us to a radically different way: using whatever position, privilege, or resources we have to help others become all God intends them to be. [21:17]

Acts 13:42-43 (ESV)
"As they went out, the people begged that these things might be told them the next Sabbath. And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you have influence or authority? How can you use it this week to intentionally elevate or empower someone else, rather than seeking recognition for yourself?

Day 4: The Lasting Impact of Faithful Presence

Often, the most significant impact we have on others comes not from spectacular moments, but from simply showing up and being present in their lives. Whether it's a youth pastor investing time in a young person, or elderly church members faithfully serving at VBS, these acts of presence may seem small or go unnoticed, but God uses them to shape lives and build His kingdom. People may not remember what you said or did, but they will remember how you made them feel—loved, seen, and valued. Trust that your faithful presence, even in ordinary moments, is being used by God in ways you may never fully see. [31:46]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV)
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Reflection: Think of a time when someone’s simple presence made a difference in your life. Who might God be calling you to “just show up” for this week, even if it seems small or unnoticed?

Day 5: Jesus—The Ultimate Presence With Us

Barnabas’ ministry of presence ultimately points us to Jesus, who left the glory of heaven to be present with us in our brokenness. Jesus’ entire ministry was marked by being with people, sharing life, and ultimately giving Himself fully on the cross so that we could be reconciled to God. No matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, Jesus offers you His presence, love, and freedom. He invites you to receive His grace and to share His presence with others, trusting that God works through even the most ordinary acts of faithfulness. [36:55]

John 1:14 (ESV)
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Reflection: How does knowing that Jesus is present with you—no matter your circumstances—change the way you approach today? Is there an area of your life where you need to invite Him in more fully, or someone with whom you can share His presence?

Sermon Summary

The presence of Christ is not just a theological concept but a living reality that transforms lives and communities. In reflecting on the life of Barnabas, we see how God often works through the quiet, faithful presence of his people rather than just the spectacular or public gifts. Barnabas, whose real name was Joseph, was so marked by encouragement that the apostles gave him a new name—Barnabas, the “Son of Encouragement.” His presence was a superpower, not because of flashy talents, but because he consistently showed up, believed in others, and used his influence to lift them up.

Barnabas’s impact is most evident in his relationship with Saul, later known as Paul. When everyone else was suspicious of Saul’s conversion, Barnabas stood in the gap, vouching for him and risking his own reputation. This act of presence and advocacy allowed Saul to move freely among the believers, no longer shackled by his past but living in the freedom Christ offers. Barnabas didn’t just speak words of encouragement; he demonstrated his belief in Saul by seeking him out, bringing him to Antioch, and giving him opportunities to lead and grow. In doing so, Barnabas helped unleash Paul’s potential, which would go on to shape the course of Christian history.

The ministry of presence is not about seeking recognition or being the center of attention. It’s about faithfully showing up, investing in others, and trusting that God is at work in ways we may never fully see. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply be present—listening, encouraging, and reminding others of the freedom and love found in Christ. These small acts, often unnoticed by the world, are the very means by which God advances his mission.

Ultimately, Barnabas points us to Jesus, the ultimate example of presence. Christ, though possessing all power, chose to humble himself, dwell among us, and give his life so that we might be brought into God’s family. His presence is the foundation of our freedom and the model for how we are to be present with others. Whether through overt acts of discipleship or the quiet faithfulness of showing up, God uses our presence to bring life, healing, and hope to those around us.

Key Takeaways

1. The Power of Believing in Others: Barnabas’s willingness to stand with Saul when others doubted him demonstrates the transformative power of believing in someone’s potential. Our words and actions can break the chains of the past and help others walk in the freedom Christ offers, even when their history gives others reason to doubt. This kind of advocacy is a vital part of God’s redemptive work in the world. [11:40]
2. Presence Over Performance: While the world and even the church often celebrate public gifts and spectacular moments, God frequently works through the quiet, faithful presence of his people. The ministry of presence—simply being with others, listening, and encouraging—can have a deeper and more lasting impact than any performance or achievement. We must not underestimate the spiritual significance of showing up for one another. [24:28]
3. Faithfulness in the Ordinary: Many of the most significant moments in God’s kingdom happen in the ordinary, unnoticed acts of faithfulness. Whether it’s a kind word, a listening ear, or a simple act of service, these small investments can bear fruit far beyond what we can see. God calls us to trust that he is at work in the mundane as much as in the miraculous. [34:37]
4. Using Power to Elevate Others: In a world that uses power to dominate, the way of Christ is to use whatever influence or authority we have to lift others up. Barnabas was willing to take a lower seat so that Paul could flourish, modeling a radically different view of power—one that seeks the good of others above self-promotion. This is the heart of Christian leadership and community. [22:59]
5. The Legacy of Presence: The impact of our presence often extends far beyond what we can measure. Like the faithful women at VBS or a youth pastor’s investment, our willingness to show up and care for others can ripple through generations, shaping lives and communities in ways we may never fully know. The presence of Christ in us is multiplied as we share it with others. [31:46]
** [31:46]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[03:20] - The Power of Presence in Community
[05:49] - Barnabas: The Son of Encouragement
[07:40] - Saul’s Transformation and Suspicion
[10:03] - Barnabas Stands in the Gap
[12:45] - Freedom from the Past
[14:18] - Living in Christ’s Freedom
[19:04] - Barnabas and Paul in Antioch
[20:02] - The Shift: Paul Takes the Lead
[22:59] - Redefining Power in the Kingdom
[24:28] - The Ministry of Everyday Presence
[25:55] - Encouragement in Community
[28:32] - The Impact of Discipleship
[30:43] - Remembering Presence Over Information
[34:37] - Faithfulness in the Ordinary
[44:10] - Closing Prayer and Response

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Acts 4:36-37 (ESV) — > Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.

Acts 9:26-28 (ESV) — > And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord.

Acts 11:22-26 (ESV) — > The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 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. So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.

Observation Questions

What was Barnabas’s real name, and why did the apostles give him the name “Barnabas”?
How did Barnabas respond when the other disciples were afraid and suspicious of Saul (Paul) after his conversion?
What actions did Barnabas take when he saw God working in Antioch, and how did he involve Saul in the ministry there?
According to the sermon, what shift happened in the leadership dynamic between Barnabas and Paul during their missionary journeys?

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think Barnabas’s willingness to stand with Saul (Paul) was so significant for the early church and for Saul himself?
The sermon describes Barnabas’s presence as a “superpower.” What does it mean for presence to be more powerful than public gifts or talents in the context of Christian community?
How does Barnabas’s example challenge the way we typically think about leadership and influence in the church?
The sermon mentions that Barnabas points us to Jesus, the ultimate example of presence. In what ways does Jesus’s presence with us shape how we are present with others?

Application Questions

Think of a time when someone believed in you or stood up for you when others doubted. How did that impact your life? Is there someone in your life right now who needs you to be their “Barnabas”?
The sermon talks about the “ministry of presence”—simply showing up, listening, and encouraging. Who in your life could benefit from your faithful presence this week, even if it’s not dramatic or public?
Are there ways you tend to value performance or public recognition over quiet faithfulness? How might God be inviting you to invest in the “ordinary” moments and relationships around you?
Barnabas used his influence to lift up Paul, even if it meant taking a back seat. Is there a situation where you could use your position or resources to help someone else grow or lead, even if it means less attention for yourself?
The sermon shared stories about the lasting impact of simple acts of presence—like a youth pastor’s investment or faithful VBS volunteers. Who has shaped your faith through their presence, and how can you thank or honor them?
Sometimes our past can feel like “shackles,” keeping us from living in the freedom Christ offers. Is there an area of your life where you need to be reminded of your freedom in Christ? How can your small group help encourage you in this?
Jesus’s presence with us is the foundation for how we are present with others. What is one practical way you can reflect Christ’s presence to someone outside your usual circle this week?

Sermon Clips

But I love this idea that Barnabas stepping into Saul's life, Paul was able to move about freely in Jerusalem. Not, man, what are they thinking about me? Man, I mean, do they know everything I've done? Moving about freely shackles off. Living in what Christ has purchased for us. And just on a side thought, I think that's one of the most powerful things we can do for one another to help each other to live in the freedom Christ has bought at a great price for every single one of us. And remind one another, you're free. You're free. Amen. You are free. Stop listening to those other voices. Listen to the voice of Christ that says you've been set free. [00:14:18] (49 seconds) #FreedomThroughEncouragement

But guys, don't dismiss the powerful ways that God uses our presence with others for his kingdom purposes. Amen? Don't poo -poo those like insignificant -looking everyday moments of just, you never know how God is using those things. [00:25:05] (20 seconds) #GodUsesEveryMoment

If I can encourage, and I think I'm already sensing you guys already do this, but don't be stingy on your encouragement for one another. You never know what people are going through and sometimes there's the temptation we come to church and everyone looks all holy moly and smiley wearing their nice church clothes and they're like, oh man, everyone's life is great. One of the most powerful things you can do is resist that urge to say, they don't need to hear anything from me and say, hey, how are you doing? How can I encourage you? How can I pray for you? How's life been? Because we always assume everyone's okay, but one of the most powerful things you can do in a setting, and I, no one, Pastor Mitch didn't tell me to do this and say, but this is one of the reasons why I'm such a big believer in the community and church, whether it's small groups or gathering together like this. [00:25:34] (51 seconds) #EncourageToEndure

And I'll say this too. Again, this might be going to be canceled at a good Orthodox church like Cross Life. It's okay. I'm here today. I wish I could remember what we studied. I have no clue. I can't remember a single verse, a single Bible study. I'm sure it was great. I can't remember any doctrinal points of it. But I absolutely remember how he made me feel. I absolutely remember the presence of Christ through his love and his care for me. And it reminds me that's not to downplay doctrine. I don't, don't like sound quote me on wrong stuff. Doctrine is absolutely important. What we study, but sometimes we elevate the information over like the presence of Christ in us. Does that make sense? [00:30:35] (51 seconds) #LegacyOfPresence

So sometimes it's stories like that. Sometimes our presence looks like overt disciple making, but guys, sometimes you it's just committing to show up it's just committing to trust that our faithful presence is being used by God even if we can't always be aware of what it looks like. [00:32:19] (19 seconds) #SmallActsBigImpact

Could I ask you to consider what would it would look like that there is a God who knows and loves you so much that he would give his very life so that you can be brought into his family no matter what you've done no matter where you've been no matter whatever stuff you want to keep hidden away that you can bring that to God knowing that he took that all upon himself in Christ trust him with your life today and find some of this freedom that the apostle Paul was able to live in because that's something we all are desperately in need of the freedom in Christ. [00:39:45] (36 seconds) #FreedomInChrist

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