People can sense when someone is speaking the truth, especially in religious matters. Barnabas was a good man and filled with the Holy Spirit - the sort of person you would like to have in your church community.

It was his words and example that attracted so many converts in Antioch. It was a mixed community - both Jews and Gentiles - but all were bound together by the preached word and the spirit-filled life. Our words and actions should always be authentic, sincere, and rooted in God if we want to be convincing to others.

This was the case with Jesus - many heard his words, but far fewer responded with faith. He insisted that those who were his sheep heard his voice and followed. They had seen his works, and they believed. The hearts and minds of the others were not attuned to him. They heard his words with their ears, but it did not penetrate their hearts and understanding. We need to always have our hearts and minds in harmony with the Lord so that we can hear his voice.