Barnabas: "Bridge the gaps of differing opinions

Barnabas: "Bridge the gaps of differing opinions."

He was nicknamed "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36). He bridged the gaps between the Greek and Jewish worlds. Born a Cypriot and reared a Levite, he linked the Hellenistic world and the Jerusalem church. Even when John Mark was being severely ostracized by Paul, Barnabas stood by John Mark.

He was generous and that in itself bridges the gaps of selfish and greedy people if God's grace is given the opportunity to be operative. He sold his land and gave it to the church treasury. He was not an "out front" kind of person, but rather stayed in the background as a fan and supporter of Paul. The most memorable aspect of effective leadership of a pastor is when he has survived the polarities of differing opinions and modeled having each side respect the other's.