Acts 11:19-24

It seems history records, over and over again, that what the enemy meant for evil, God turns to good. While it may have seemed to some that the message was being silenced, the opposite was actually true. Because of the persecution, the message of the Gospel was spreading even further.

We can still see that the Jews were somewhat exclusive with the message, even though it was meant for the whole world. Yet some were learning to break free from their religious traditions and prejudices.

Barnabas was such a man. His heart was truly filled with the Lord’s compassion, and he rejoiced that the Gentiles were receiving the Word of God. Barnabas became one of the key figures in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles, working closely alongside Paul the Apostle.

Notice that Barnabas saw evidence of God’s blessing among the Gentiles. The Holy Spirit was indeed actively at work, touching the lives of both Jews and Gentiles, just as Jesus had said.

As we reflect on this, we are reminded that God’s purposes cannot be stopped by opposition, prejudice, or human limitation. He continues to work through willing hearts that are open to His leading and compassionate toward others.