Thursday 11 June 2026 - Steadfast devotion
The podcast centers on the Feast of St. Barnabas, highlighting his role as a model of steadfast devotion and spiritual encouragement in the early Church. Drawing from Acts of the Apostles, the episode emphasizes how Barnabas responded to God's grace not with pride, but with joy and a commitment to strengthen others—first by welcoming Paul to Antioch, then by nurturing a community where disciples were first called 'Christians.' The episode underscores a powerful spiritual rhythm: grace received, joy expressed, faith encouraged, and mission launched—especially during times of prayer and fasting. It challenges listeners to reflect on how they have been encouraged in their faith and how they, in turn, can be an instrument of encouragement. The call to mission is not sudden or dramatic, but emerges from communal worship and spiritual attentiveness, revealing that divine purpose often unfolds in the quiet moments of devotion.
St. Barnabas' name means 'Son of Encouragement'—a title that reflects his core spiritual identity and mission.
The first Christians were called by name in Antioch, showing that identity in Christ emerges from community and shared faith.
God's call to mission always arises in the context of prayer, fasting, and communal worship—never in isolation.
Encouragement is not passive; it requires active commitment to 'remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion.'
The Holy Spirit speaks through the community, not just individuals—prophets and teachers together discern God’s will.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening Reflection: Gratitude for Creation
The episode begins with a moment of gratitude for the natural world—sun, moon, stars, and even darkness—setting a contemplative tone for prayer and reflection.
Scripture Reading: The Life and Mission of St. Barnabas
The Acts of the Apostles is read, focusing on Barnabas’ character, his search for Saul (Paul), and the founding of the church in Antioch where believers were first called Christians.
The Church at Antioch: Prophets, Teachers, and Divine Calling
The episode highlights the diverse leadership in Antioch—prophets and teachers including Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius, Manaen, and Saul—gathered in worship and fasting when the Holy Spirit speaks.
The Call to Mission: Prayer, Fasting, and the Holy Spirit
“It's striking that the Holy Spirit's call to mission comes during a time of prayer and fasting, when the community is gathered and attentive to God.”
From Joy to Encouragement to Mission: The Dynamic of Grace
“The grace of God is received and then shared. Where in this dynamic do you find yourself most at home? And where might God be inviting you to go?”
“The grace of God is received and then shared. Where in this dynamic do you find yourself most at home? And where might God be inviting you to go?”
“It's striking that the Holy Spirit's call to mission comes during a time of prayer and fasting, when the community is gathered and attentive to God.”
“Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. That is a generous and beautiful description.”
Hosts
St. Barnabas
person
Holy Spirit
other
Antioch
place
Saul
person
Paul
person
Liz Weiss
person
Jerusalem
place
Dee Wilson
person
Good Shepherd Collective
organization
Simeon who was called Niger
person
Rest and make room for God's glory (Keys of the Kingdom, 2026)
2h 9m • 5/30/2026
Don't Stop Believin' | Do Not Forsake the Gathering of Yourselves | Week 2
59m • 5/30/2026
The Fullness of Faith - 12 (Faith and the obedience for release)
2h 12m • 6/2/2026
Don't Stop Believin' | Do Not Think of Yourself So Highly | Week 3
37m • 6/7/2026
Ephesians 1:1-2
46m • 6/14/2026
Sunday 31 May 2026 - For God so loved the world
11m • 5/31/2026
Tuesday 2 June 2026 - The things that are God's
11m • 6/2/2026
Wednesday 3 June 2026 - Grace, mercy and peace
13m • 6/3/2026
Thursday 4 June 2026 - With all your heart
12m • 6/4/2026
Friday 5 June 2026 - A disciple of Christ
12m • 6/5/2026
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime