Last Sunday we thought about how it tell us in Ephesians chapter 4 that God has equipped each of us “for works of service, so that the body of Christ (our church) may be built up” (v.12) and this article by Anthony helps us to recognise how each of us can be involved in building up the church - Stephen
Be a Barnabas!
My favourite Bible character?
It has to be Barnabas from the New Testament!
Why? Because he was such an encourager.
In fact his name was Joseph, but he was given the nickname ‘Barnabas’ by the apostles at the end of Acts chapter 4. There are funny nicknames and also unpleasant nicknames; but this was a compliment to him because almost every time we meet him, we see him encouraging others.
We find him encouraging the early church through his generosity – he ‘sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet’ (Acts 4:37).
Then he stood by the newly converted Saul (Paul) when the disciples were suspicious as to whether Saul had been genuinely converted! Barnabas vouched for the genuineness of his faith, and how encouraged Saul must have been by that.
Finally, when the gospel spread to Antioch in Acts 11 Barnabas was sent up there. And what did he do to the new Christians? ‘He…encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts’ (Acts 11:23).
We need to let Barnabas be a role model to us as believers today.
There is so much discouragement around, such a critical spirit, and it is easy to get caught up in this. Be a ‘Barny’ instead! A word or an act of encouragement to others often brings a smile to their faces and to their hearts. It can also help folk to persevere at some task or another. Pouring cold water upon people’s ideas dampens their enthusiasm; encouragement strengthens them to continue.
Encouragement uplifts, warms, inspires, blesses.
Who can you encourage this week? - Anthony
Sunday – It used to be the tradition that women wore hats when in church. Whether you are male or female you may wish to start wearing a hat as we continue to gather through the autumn and winter. You may also like to consider wearing the boots you usually only wear when it snows, as the hall floor tends to make most people’s feet feel cold and I also mentioned last week about bringing along a blanket. We will continue to follow Government guidelines and keep the hall ventilated with fresh-air during both morning and evening gatherings which means that you need to come well prepared to sit in the cold! - Stephen