Paul's Conversion and Early Ministry
Understand how Barnabas supported Paul's early ministry
Identify the importance of encouragement in Christian community
Recognize how God uses people to help others grow in faith
“When Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join himself to the disciples; and they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared to them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus.”
— Acts 9:26-27 (WEB)Demonstrates Barnabas's role as an encourager and bridge-builder in the early church
Welcome to today's BibleMouse adventure! Recap how Paul was once an enemy of Christians but became a powerful follower of Jesus.
Explore the story of Barnabas, whose name means 'Son of Encouragement'
Create an 'Encouragement Notebook' mapping out Barnabas's support of Paul
Simpler: Use BibleMouse coloring pages about Paul and Barnabas
Challenge: Research additional references to Barnabas in the New Testament
Reflect on how we can be encouragers like Barnabas
Dear God, help us to be encouragers who support and love others, just as Barnabas supported Paul.
Coming up: Tomorrow we'll explore Paul's first missionary journey!
“But the Lord said to Ananias, 'Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.'”
— Acts 9:15 (WEB)🎯 Activity: Encouragement Chain: Write each word of the verse on a paper chain link, then connect the links while reciting the verse together
Barnabas was a key figure in the early church, helping to bridge differences and support new believers
Children might find it hard to understand the historical context of early Christian relationships
Signs of empathy and understanding about supporting others