10 Interesting Facts About Barnabas from the Bible

Barnabas is one of the most important early leaders in the New Testament church. His story appears mostly in the book of Acts, and though he isn’t as well-known as Paul or Peter, he played a key role in spreading the gospel and building the early church. Here are 10 interesting facts about Barnabas, with Scripture to back each one up.

1. Barnabas Wasn’t His Birth Name

Barnabas was actually a nickname. His real name was Joseph. The apostles gave him the name “Barnabas,” which means “son of encouragement.”

“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means 'son of encouragement')” – Acts 4:36 (NIV)

He was known for lifting others up and helping the church grow.

2. He Was a Generous Man

Barnabas sold a field he owned and gave the money to the apostles. This showed his dedication to the needs of the early church.

“He sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.” – Acts 4:37

He gave sacrificially and put others first.

3. He Was from the Island of Cyprus

Barnabas was born on the island of Cyprus, which played a part in his later missionary work.

“Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus…” – Acts 4:36

This made him a Greek-speaking Jew, likely fluent in different cultures and languages.

4. Barnabas Defended Saul (Paul) When No One Else Would

After Saul’s conversion, many Christians were afraid of him. But Barnabas took a risk and stood up for him.

“But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles.” – Acts 9:27

Barnabas believed in second chances and was key to helping Paul join the church.

5. He Was a Trusted Church Leader

When the church in Jerusalem heard about new believers in Antioch, they sent Barnabas to check things out. They trusted him to encourage and teach.

“When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all…” – Acts 11:23

He was full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and many people came to Christ through his work.

6. Barnabas Recruited Paul for Ministry

Barnabas saw the need for help in Antioch and went looking for Paul in Tarsus. He brought him back to help teach.

“Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch.” – Acts 11:25–26

This partnership launched Paul’s public ministry.

7. Barnabas and Paul Were Missionary Partners

Barnabas and Paul went on their first missionary journey together. They traveled, preached, and started churches.

“The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.” – Acts 13:4

They were among the first missionaries sent by the early church.

8. He Brought His Cousin Mark Along

Barnabas brought John Mark, his cousin, on their first missionary trip.

“Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them…” – Acts 15:37

Even when Mark failed and left the journey, Barnabas gave him another chance later. His loyalty helped restore Mark to ministry.

9. Barnabas and Paul Eventually Parted Ways

Paul didn’t want to take Mark on their next journey because he had left before. Barnabas disagreed. They split and went separate ways.

“They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus.” – Acts 15:39

Even in disagreement, Barnabas stayed true to his encouraging nature.

10. He Continued Spreading the Gospel Even After the Split

Though Paul and Barnabas went different directions, Barnabas kept preaching. His influence lived on through Mark, who later wrote the Gospel of Mark.

Paul would later say that Mark was helpful to him, showing Barnabas' faith in people paid off.

“Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.” – 2 Timothy 4:11

Quick Summary Table