Acts of the Holy Spirit: A Study in ActsSample

What does it say?

Peter explained his vision to believers in Jerusalem. Barnabas and Saul met with the church in Antioch for an entire year, where Jesus’ disciples were first called Christians.

What does it mean?

Although Barnabas didn’t have Peter’s charismatic personality or Paul’s dramatic testimony, he was a man of honorable character with discernment and humility. The apostles even changed his name from Joseph to Barnabas because it means “Son of Encouragement” (Acts 4:36). Under his leadership, Antioch became a key city for the early church because many believers from there went on to become missionaries and church leaders. The church in Antioch grew numerically and spiritually as Barnabas and Saul worked side by side. Onlookers noticed that this group belonged to Christ wholeheartedly, which is why believers were first called Christians in Antioch.

How should I respond?

Do you know the meaning of your name? You might have been given a particular name because it represents something or someone significant, or people may call you something other than your given name because of what it means. One name we can choose for ourselves is “Christian.” Unfortunately, its meaning has been sullied over the years because people who held the name haven’t always acted like faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Are you a Christian? How will you live up to His name today?