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'Son of encouragement,' missionary
Barnabas
1st century AD · Apostolic
Life
Levite from Cyprus who sold a field for the church, vouched for Saul, and partnered with Paul on the first missionary journey.
Brought Saul to the apostles; first missionary partner; the bridge man of the early Church.
Key Facts
- Brought Saul to the apostles
- Took Mark when Paul refused
- Founding teacher at Antioch
Why this matters
Catalyst of Gentile mission and reconciler of leaders.
Where to Read
Contemporaries
Mary, mother of Jesus
Mother of the Messiah
c. 18 BC – AD 48
Joseph of Nazareth
Earthly father of Jesus
c. 25 BC – AD 20
John the Baptist
Forerunner of Christ
c. 5 BC – AD 28
Jesus of Nazareth
Messiah, Son of God
c. 4 BC – AD 33
Peter
Apostle
c. AD 1–64
John the Apostle
Apostle, beloved disciple
c. AD 6–100
Paul (Saul of Tarsus)
Apostle to the Gentiles
c. AD 5–67
Timothy
Paul's young companion, pastor of Ephesus
Apostolic
Luke
Physician, historian
Apostolic