Acts 4:36 Meaning and Explanation
“And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Luke introduces Joses, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles surnamed Barnabas — the son of consolation.
What Does Acts 4:36 Mean?
From the wide picture Luke draws one face: Joses, a Levite from the island of Cyprus, so marked by encouragement that the apostles renamed him for it. Barnabas will become the man who vouches for Saul (Acts 9:27) and fetches him for the work at Antioch (Acts 11:25-26).
Some people are renamed by their goodness. The gift of Barnabas was making others stronger — and Luke shows it beginning here, with an open hand. Encouragement is ministry weighty enough to become a name. The church in every age still runs on its sons and daughters of consolation.
Acts 4:36 in the Original Language
paraklesis (παράκλησις), 'consolation' -- comfort and encouragement; help called to stand beside another.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 4:36
What does Acts 4:36 mean?
Luke introduces Joses, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles surnamed Barnabas — the son of consolation.