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Barnabas
Illustration created for this project.

Barnabas — son of encouragement

A Levite of Cyprus, named Joseph but called Barnabas, 'son of encouragement.' He vouched for the newly-converted Paul before the wary Jerusalem church and was his partner on the first missionary journey, until they parted over John Mark. Tradition makes him the founder of the church in Cyprus.

Role: Apostle · companion of Paul
Also known as: Joseph, called Barnabas
Lived: 1st century AD
Death: Traditionally martyred at Salamis on Cyprus

What we know — and how we know it

Bible — stated in scripture (with verse) · 1 Scholarly — supported scholarly belief · 1
Life, role & deeds
BibleA Levite of Cyprus who vouched for the converted Saul and was his partner on the first missionary journey.
Acts 9:27; 13:2
Death & legacy
ScholarlyA monastery near Salamis on Cyprus marks his traditional tomb; he is honoured as the founder of the Cypriot church.
St Barnabas Monastery, Cyprus
Salamis

Where in scripture

Acts1 CorinthiansGalatiansColossians
Acts 4:36Acts 9:27Acts 11:22Acts 11:25Acts 11:30Acts 12:25Acts 13:1Acts 13:2Acts 13:7Acts 13:43Acts 13:46Acts 13:50Acts 14:12Acts 14:14Acts 14:201 Corinthians 9:6Galatians 2:1Galatians 2:9Galatians 2:13Colossians 4:10

Family

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In art