Introduction
- I Thessalonians 5:11
- Be an encourager, not a discourager!
- Numbers 13:25-33 – Ten of the twelve spies brought back a discouraging report.
- Numbers 14:1-4
- Deuteronomy 1:21, 28 – “our brethren have discouraged our hearts”
The effects of discouragement
- It is demoralizing.
- It often has a leavening effect.
- It creates a negative atmosphere.
Barnabas, son of encouragement
- Acts 4:32-37 – Our first introduction to Barnabas.
- Be a Barnabas!
What does a “Barnabas” do?
- He or she gives comfort and encouragement to others (Acts 4:36; cf. Galatians 6:2).
- He or she stands up and speaks on behalf of others (Acts 9:26-27).
- He or she encourages fellow Christians “that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord” (Acts 11:23; cf. I Corinthians 15:58).
- He or she gives others a “second chance” to serve the Lord (Acts 15:37-39).
Be a “Barnabas” to others!
- Let us encourage our older members.
- Those who are faithful in coming but often in pain; widows and widowers; our shut-in.
- Let us encourage those who are married to non-Christians or divorced, but faithful.
- Let us encourage those who battle chronic illnesses and diseases.
- Let us encourage our Bible class teachers.
- Let us encourage our children and young people to put God first in their lives.
- Let us encourage elders, deacons, preachers (and their spouses) as they serve.
- Let us encourage younger men to be preparing themselves to be elders/deacons.
- Let us encourage those we know who are presently struggling with discouragement.
Conclusion
- We all need an encourager!
- You need an encourager!
- Who’s your Barnabas?
- Every Christian should see encouraging others as an essential part of their discipleship.
- Encouraging is a spiritual art that can be learned, mostly through practice.
- Let me encourage you:
- To obey the gospel of Christ, in order to receive salvation (Romans 1:16; Mark 16:15-16).
- To grow in your faith and remain faithful in serving the Lord (II Peter 1:5; Acts 11:23).