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Not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near (Hebrews 10:25, NASB1995).
Hebrews 10:25 instructs us to encourage one another and “all the more” when we see the day approaching. We all need to be encouraged, as “the day” in this verse refers to the time right before the second coming of Jesus.
These days will be so obstructive and confusing that all believers will need encouragement.
The Greek word for “encouragement” comes from the same root as “Paraclete,” the name usually translated “Helper” given by Jesus to the Holy Spirit (John 14:16). The word encouragement (and “Helper”) in the Greek carries the image of a close friend coming to assist.
In these last days of great “encouragement need,” there’s no better example than Barnabas, who was called “Son of Encouragement” by the apostles (Acts 4:36). He is mentioned in the Bible about 15 times, but from the following story, we understand why Barnabas was known for his encouragement.
And when he [the Apostle Paul] had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus (Acts 9:26-27, ESV).
Discouraging for Paul, having seen the bright light, now following Jesus, and then finding disciples and even the apostles afraid of him. Barnabas takes Paul to the apostles, explains Paul’s testimony, and stands by him. I’ve often wondered about the impact on Paul’s subsequent ministry if he had been rejected by the apostles that early in his career.
Let’s note how Barnabas encouraged Paul, learning how we can help one another today:
First: Barnabas trusted Paul. One of the most discouraging situations is when nobody understands us. We get a calling from God, and then receive an avalanche of skepticism when we share our vision. Consider Paul, the #1 persecutor of the church, now claiming to be the #1 defender and missionary of the early church — would we be Barnabas or the apostles in this situation?
Second. Barnabas took a risk when supporting Paul. I’ve had friends, no longer favorable to me, who tried to curry favor with more influential people. We’ve all experienced friends refraining from our company because of greater advantages elsewhere. Yet, Barnabas risked his friendship with the Twelve Great Pillars of the Church (the apostles) to come alongside Paul. I pray that I will stand by the Lord’s chosen in their time of need.
Third. Barnabas testified to God’s anointing on Paul. Nothing encourages our calling more than when other respected believers approach us and say, “I see God working through you.” Barnabas noticed Paul’s preaching and affirmed this gift.
First, second, and third: let’s follow Barnabas’s example and encourage one another.