Which apostle was nicknamed 'Son of Encouragement'?

The apostle nicknamed “Son of Encouragement” was Barnabas. Acts 4:36 explains that the apostles gave this name to Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus. The Greek phrase can be translated as “son of encouragement” or “son of consolation,” describing a person associated with strengthening and comforting others.

Barnabas’s actions match the nickname. In Acts, he sells a field and brings the money to the apostles for the community’s needs. Later, when the church in Jerusalem hears that many people in Antioch are becoming believers, Barnabas is sent there. He rejoices at what he sees and encourages the new community to remain faithful.

Barnabas also played a crucial role in supporting Saul, later known as Paul. When other believers were cautious about Saul because of his earlier persecution of Christians, Barnabas vouched for him and brought him to the apostles. The two later served together as missionaries, although they eventually disagreed sharply over whether John Mark should accompany them.

Barnabas was an important early Christian leader, but he was not one of the Twelve apostles. That distinction is a common source of confusion: the nickname comes from Acts, while Barnabas’s missionary work is chiefly associated with the expanding early church.