Commended Laborers: Others
The “lone ranger” concept is foreign in the New Testament. One last qualifier for anyone in ministry is the validation of other believers.
Before we learn of Barnabas, the minister, we understand his reputation, character, sacrifice, and personality. Luke initially introduces him, not as Barnabas, but as “Joseph” in Acts 4:36-37. No need to learn Greek here as Luke tells us “Barnabas” translates as Son of Encouragement (Acts 4:36). The apostles referred to him by this name, expressing their opinion of him.
Following Paul’s conversion, many of the disciples feared him but Barnabas vouched for him (Acts 9:26-27). Although Christ set Paul apart for the mission at his conversion, it wasn’t until he was already a leader in the church at Antioch the Spirit said, “Go” (Acts 13:1-3).
In Lystra and Iconium, the brothers spoke well of Timothy (Acts 16:2).
Similarly, Paul vouched for Epaphroditus to the Philippians (Philippians 2:25-30).
Paul considered Titus trustworthy enough to oversee the order of all the churches on the island of Crete (Titus 1:5).
The apostles, elders, and entire Jerusalem church chose Silas, recognized both as a leader among the brothers and as a prophet, to accompany Barnabas in delivering their letter to the Gentiles in Antioch (Acts 15:22-23, 32). Also of a commendable nature, was the fact that Paul chose Silas to join him once he and Barnabas parted ways (Acts 15:39-40).
Before Philip’s evangelizing and Stephen’s preaching and martyrdom, the church recognized them, along with Prochrous, Nicanor, Nimon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, as “men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom.” The whole company of disciples in Jerusalem appointed them to serve as deacons (Acts 6:3).
For a church of 3,000 people (and growing daily by God) (Acts 2:41, 47), the character of these seven men must have stood out.
For a church of 3,000 people (and growing daily by God) (Acts 2:41, 47), the character of these seven men must have stood out.
This pattern of commending is repeatedly observed. None of these individuals commended themselves; rather, it was God working through both them and the church that guided them into more specific missions.
In today’s ministry landscape, the world needs seasoned disciple-makers to train those with less experience. Affirmation from others, especially during hardships, becomes crucial for ministry leaders, who serve as visible pictures of God's commendation and assurance of His enduring presence.
