Devine Scripture

Acts 4:36

What does Acts 4:36 mean?

A plain-English look at Acts 4:36 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Acts 4:36 means

Joseph, a Levite by lineage and a native of Cyprus, is introduced as a notable example of this communal generosity. He was given the surname Barnabas by the apostles, which meant "Son of exhortation" (or 'encouragement'). This new name reflected his character and ministry, indicating his significant role in uplifting and supporting the early Christian community, particularly through his teaching and practical care. He would later become a key figure alongside Paul.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And Joseph, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, Son of exhortation), a Levite, a man of Cyprus by race,

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And Joseph, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, Son of exhortation), a Levite, a man of Cyprus by race,

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And Joseph, who was given by the Apostles the name of Barnabas (the sense of which is, Son of comfort), a Levite and a man of Cyprus by birth,

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Joses, who was surnamed by the apostles Barnabas--which is, having been interpreted, Son of Comfort--a Levite, of Cyprus by birth,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And Joseph, who, by the apostles, was surnamed Barnabas (which is, by interpretation, The son of consolation), a Levite, a Cyprian born,

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And Joseph, who had been surnamed Barnabas by the apostles (which is, being interpreted, Son of consolation), a Levite, Cyprian by birth,

Context

This verse introduces Barnabas as a concrete example of the generosity previously described, giving a specific illustration. It follows the general explanation of how contributions were made and distributed, providing a personal face to the practice. This introduction of Barnabas is significant, setting the stage for his later prominence in the book of Acts as an important leader and missionary.

v.35and laid them at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto each, according as any one had need.

v.36This passage

v.37having a field, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Acts 11:19

    They therefore that were scattered abroad upon the tribulation that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia, and Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to none save only to Jews.

  • Galatians 2:1

    Then after the space of fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus also with me.

  • Acts 12:25

    And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministration, taking with them John whose surname was Mark.

  • Acts 9:27

    But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto 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.

  • Galatians 2:13

    And the rest of the Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that even Barnabas was carried away with their dissimulation.

  • Acts 15:37

    And Barnabas was minded to take with them John also, who was called Mark.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Acts 4

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Acts 4.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Acts 4:36.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary