# Barsabas (Justus) ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Barsabas, Justus. - **Meaning:** "Barsabas" means "son of Sabas" in Aramaic. "Justus" is a Latin name meaning "just" or "righteous." - **Significance:** His names reflect a combination of Jewish and Roman identities, suggesting a person of integrity and righteousness. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** While the exact dates of his life are not specified, he lived during the 1st century AD. - **Historical Context:** Barsabas, also known as Justus, appears in the context of the early Christian church shortly after the ascension of Jesus Christ. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** Candidate for apostleship. - **Significance:** Barsabas was one of the two candidates considered to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve apostles, highlighting his standing and reputation among the early disciples. ## Tags - #biblical-figures - #roles-apostle-candidate - #timelines-new-testament ## Cross-References - Barsabas (Justus) is mentioned in the context of selecting a replacement for Judas Iscariot in [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]. ## Key References: Barsabas (Justus) ### Primary Passages - **Selection of Matthias:** [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]—Barsabas, also known as Justus, is mentioned as one of the two candidates considered to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle. Though not chosen, his inclusion indicates his stature and faithfulness among the early followers of Jesus. ### Mentions in Genealogies - Barsabas (Justus) is not directly mentioned in biblical genealogies. ### New Testament References - **Candidate for Apostleship:** [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]—In the context of choosing Judas Iscariot's replacement, Barsabas is recognized for having been with Jesus throughout His ministry, which underscores his witness to Jesus' works and resurrection. This highlights the importance of firsthand witness in the early church. ### Prophetic/Typological References - Barsabas (Justus) does not have direct prophetic or typological references in the scriptures. ### Tags - #key-references - #acts - #justus - #early-church - #apostolic-succession ## Relationships: Barsabas (Justus) ### Family Relationships - **Family:** Barsabas' family lineage is not explicitly detailed in the scriptures. There is no mention of his parents, siblings, spouse, or children in the biblical text. His name, Barsabas, suggests he may have been known as the "son of Sabas," but this is not explicitly confirmed in the Bible. ### Allies/Friends - **The Apostles:** Barsabas (also called Justus) is closely associated with the apostles as he was one of the two candidates considered to replace Judas Iscariot as a member of the Twelve Apostles ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). This indicates a close relationship and trust with the early Christian community leaders. - **Matthias:** As the other candidate for apostleship, Matthias was likely a peer and ally, sharing the same dedication to the early Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **No Specific Adversaries:** The scriptures do not record any specific adversaries or conflicts involving Barsabas. His brief mention is solely in the context of being a candidate for apostleship, and no conflicts are noted within this narrative. ### Spiritual Relationships - **God/Jesus Christ:** Barsabas was among the followers of Jesus who had been with Him from the baptism of John to the ascension, implying a dedicated spiritual relationship and discipleship under Jesus ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). His consideration as an apostle reflects a notable level of spiritual maturity and commitment to the mission of Jesus. ### Tags - #relationships - #allies - #apostles - #earlyChurch - #spiritualCommitment - #barsabasjustus ## Significance: Barsabas (Justus) ### Theological Importance - **Witness to the Resurrection:** Barsabas, also known as Justus, was one of the two men considered to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle, highlighting the importance of eyewitnesses to the resurrection in the early Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Role in Apostolic Leadership:** Although not chosen, Barsabas' presence in this critical decision underscores the importance of faithful discipleship and readiness to serve God’s purposes in leadership roles. His inclusion emphasizes the value placed on character and witness among the early believers. ### Historical Context - **Transitional Period:** Barsabas’ consideration as a replacement for Judas occurs during a crucial transitional phase in the early Church, as the apostles prepare for the coming of the Holy Spirit and the global mission of the Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Community of Believers:** By being part of the group of 120 disciples, Barsabas represents the continuity and unity of the early Christian community following Jesus' ascension and prior to Pentecost. ### Symbolism and Typology - **Symbol of Divine Choice:** The selection process for Judas' replacement, involving casting lots, symbolizes reliance on divine guidance and the belief that God’s will is revealed through providential means ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Typology of Faithfulness:** Barsabas serves as a type of the faithful servant, demonstrating readiness to step into leadership if called, mirroring the call for all believers to be prepared for God’s service. ### Tags - #significance - #theological-themes - #biblical-history - #typology - #apostolic-leadership - #faithfulness ## Character Study: Barsabas (Justus) ### Strengths and Virtues - **Faithful Follower:** Barsabas, also known as Justus, was among those who followed Jesus during His earthly ministry from the baptism of John until the ascension of Jesus. This shows his dedication to Christ and the early Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Trustworthy:** He was considered a suitable candidate to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the Twelve Apostles, indicating that he was respected and trusted by the other disciples ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Weaknesses and Failures - The scriptures do not explicitly mention any weaknesses or failures of Barsabas (Justus). His life provides a glimpse into the role of the broader group of disciples who were faithful but not prominently featured in the biblical narrative. ### Lessons Learned - **Faithfulness in the Background:** Barsabas exemplifies the importance of being a devoted follower of Christ, even if one is not in the spotlight. His life teaches us that God values faithfulness and integrity, regardless of public recognition ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **God's Sovereign Choice:** Though not chosen to replace Judas, Barsabas' life illustrates how God's plans and choices are sovereign, and service to God is valuable regardless of the position we hold. ### Tags - #strengths-faithful - #strengths-trustworthy - #lessons-faithfulness - #lessons-divinechoice ## Themes and Symbolism: Barsabas (Justus) ### Key Themes - **Leadership and Selection:** Barsabas, also known as Justus, is considered for the apostleship to replace Judas Iscariot, highlighting the theme of leadership transition in the early church and the significance of divine guidance in selection ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Community and Unity:** His candidacy reflects the importance of maintaining unity and integrity within the Christian community as they seek God's will ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Casting Lots:** The casting of lots to choose between Barsabas and Matthias symbolizes seeking God's will and the reliance on divine guidance in matters of significant decision-making within the church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Witness to Resurrection:** Barsabas's qualification as a witness to Jesus' resurrection symbolizes the foundational role of eyewitness testimony in the proclamation of the Gospel ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Role of the Apostles:** Barsabas’s potential selection as an apostle foreshadows the continued expansion and establishment of the church through the apostles’ leadership, mirroring the commissioning by Christ ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 28|Matthew Chapter 28]]). - **Divine Choice:** The selection process foreshadows God’s sovereign choice in raising leaders for the church, echoing the selection of leaders throughout biblical history ([[1 Samuel/1 Samuel Chapter 16|1 Samuel Chapter 16]], [[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - #themes - #symbolism - #typology - #foreshadowing - #leadership - #unity - #divineguidance - #apostleship ## Connections: Barsabas (Justus) ### Parallel Figures - **Matthias:** Alongside Barsabas (Justus), Matthias was considered to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the Twelve Apostles ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). Both men were chosen from those who had been with Jesus throughout His ministry. - **Joseph of Arimathea:** Like Barsabas, Joseph is noted for his righteousness and being a follower of Jesus, though not one of the original Twelve ([[John/John Chapter 19|John Chapter 19]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Election and Discipleship:** The process of selecting Barsabas (Justus) and Matthias through casting lots prefigures the divine election and calling seen in the New Testament Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). This highlights God's sovereignty in choosing leaders for His purposes. ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Early Church Formation:** Barsabas (Justus) was part of the early Christian community in Jerusalem, which was formative in establishing the Church after Christ's ascension ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). - **Jewish-Christian Identity:** Being a disciple who had been with Jesus from the beginning, Barsabas represented the Jewish roots of the Christian faith, bridging the Old and New Covenant communities. ### Tags - #parallel-figures - #foreshadowing-Christ - #historical-context - #early-church - #apostolic-succession ## Legacy: Barsabas (Justus) ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Potential Apostle:** Barsabas (Justus) was considered as a candidate to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the Twelve Apostles, indicating his importance and standing within the early Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verse 23|Acts 1:23]]). His inclusion in this pivotal moment reflects the early Church's need for strong leaders to maintain and continue the mission initiated by Jesus. - **Witness of the Resurrection:** By being among the candidates, Barsabas was recognized as one who had been with Jesus from the baptism by John to the ascension, underscoring his role as a witness to the resurrection, which was essential for leadership in the early Church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verse 21-22|Acts 1:21-22]]). ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Specific Mentions:** Barsabas (Justus) is not mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament. His sole mention in Acts highlights the selectiveness of early Church leadership and the qualifications needed for apostolic ministry. His consideration but not selection also shows the sovereignty of God in choosing leaders for specific roles. ### Spiritual Lessons - **Faithfulness:** Barsabas' life teaches the importance of being faithful to one's calling, even when not chosen for a prominent position. His example encourages believers to serve faithfully in whatever capacity God assigns. - **Divine Selection:** The casting of lots to choose between Barsabas and Matthias illustrates that divine will, rather than human preference, guides the Church’s decisions, emphasizing trust in God's sovereign choice ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verse 26|Acts 1:26]]). ### Modern Applications - Barsabas' legacy encourages believers to find contentment and purpose in their roles, understanding that every position in service to God is significant, regardless of visibility or recognition. - His story reminds contemporary Christians that God’s plans may differ from human expectations, and His choices are always for the greater good of His divine purpose. ### Tags - #legacy - #impact-on-israel - #church-history - #spiritual-lessons - #divineselection - #faithfulness ## Geography: Barsabas (Justus) ### Significant Locations - **Jerusalem:** Barsabas (Justus) is associated with Jerusalem as part of the early Christian community. It is where the apostles and disciples gathered after Jesus' resurrection and ascension ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). This city is central to the early church's formation and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 2|Acts Chapter 2]]). - **Upper Room:** The selection process for a new apostle to replace Judas Iscariot took place in the upper room in Jerusalem. Barsabas (Justus) was one of the two candidates considered to join the Twelve Apostles ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Gathering in Jerusalem:** Barsabas (Justus) was part of the group that gathered in Jerusalem after Jesus' ascension, indicating his presence in the city during this pivotal time ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Jerusalem's Significance:** As the birthplace of the church, Jerusalem symbolizes the beginnings of the Christian faith and the fulfillment of Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit. The choosing of a new apostle in this city underscores its role as a center for early church decision-making and leadership ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - #geography - #locations-jerusalem - #locations-upper-room - #travel - #early-church - #apostolic-leadership ## Additional Resources: Barsabas (Justus) ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Selection as a Potential Apostle:** Barsabas (Justus) is mentioned as one of the candidates to replace Judas Iscariot, providing insight into the early church's decision-making process ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verses 23-26|Acts 1:23-26]]). - **Role in the Early Church:** Though not chosen as an apostle, Barsabas's mention highlights the presence of faithful followers beyond the Twelve, indicating the larger community involved in the early church ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verses 15-26|Acts 1:15-26]]). ### Genealogical References - There are no direct genealogical references for Barsabas (Justus) in the biblical text. His mention is limited to the context of Acts. ### Maps and Geographic References - **Jerusalem:** Barsabas (Justus) is associated with the early church in Jerusalem, where the selection of Judas's replacement took place ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts 1]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Choosing of Matthias:** A study of the selection process that Barsabas (Justus) was part of can be insightful for understanding the early church's emphasis on prayer and guidance by the Holy Spirit ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1 Verses 15-26|Acts 1:15-26]]). - **Community and Leadership:** Exploring how the early church community functioned and how leaders were chosen can be gleaned from this passage ([[Acts/Acts Chapter 1|Acts 1]]). ### Tags - #additional-resources - #cross-references - #early-church - #leadership - #community