Definition: Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 11:25. It’s a really important part of the story of how Christianity started spreading. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Barnabas was traveling to Tarsus (a city near Jerusalem) to talk to Saul. Let’s unpack that: “Then departed”: This tells us Barnabas made a decision to leave and go somewhere. “To seek Saul”: Saul was a Jewish leader who had previously been very opposed to the message of Jesus Christ. He was known for his strong beliefs and often persecuted Christians. “Seeking” means he wanted to understand him better, likely to try and persuade him about the truth of Christianity. So, what's the big deal? This is a crucial step in the early church’s growth. It shows that they weren’t just starting with a small group of believers; they were actively trying to reach out and connect with someone who was critical of their faith. It signifies a strategic move toward establishing a wider network of followers. Why is this important? It's a key event in the story because it opens the door for the message of Jesus to spread further! It’s like planting a seed – it needs someone to nurture it and grow into something big. Does this mean Barnabas was trying to convert Saul? Not exactly. He wasn’t trying to force him to believe. Rather, he was establishing a connection with someone who could help spread the word of God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the story?