“When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.” (Acts 11:23, NIV)

The church in Jerusalem had sent Barnabas to visit the new converts in Antioch. Barnabas was perfect for this mission, as the Bible says that he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. His name, which the apostles gave him, is translated as Son of Encouragement. He was brave, for he was the only one who dared to meet Saul after his conversion, although the latter had greatly persecuted the church.

Barnabas serves as a model for us to follow. Barnabas also encouraged the believers in the church of Antioch to remain true to the Lord. The lyrics of the hymn I Would Be True provide some examples of how to be true: