Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary

Barnabas and the Epistle to the Hebrews

A Paper Submitted to Dr. Tom Campbell In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for The Course NBST 654

By Robert C. Stilwell, Jr.

Lynchburg, Virginia Sunday, March 7, 2010

Table of Contents Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 3 What the Author Reveals ........................................................................................................... 3 Authorship of Paul ..................................................................................................................... 5 Luke: Background and Relationship with Paul ............................................................................ 9 Luke: Author or Amanuensis .................................................................................................... 10 Barnabas: Background and Relationship with Paul ................................................................... 12 Authorship of Barnabas ............................................................................................................ 14 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................... 16 Bibliography ............................................................................................................................ 17

Introduction Authorship of the Epistle to the Hebrews has been debated since the early second century. Although Pauls name is included in the title in some manuscripts, the text itself remains anonymous, as the author never mentions his name. Both Clement of Alexandria and Origen recognized that the content of the letter was connected to Paul or someone closely associated with him. However, the vocabulary and style of writing are very different from those of Paul. Origen suggested that the concepts were Pauline but that they were transcribed by someone else.1 Many names have been speculated for the authorship of the Epistle to the Hebrews, but the question remains unanswered. Among the approximately fifteen proposed authors, only three are supported by any significant argument; Paul, Luke as an author or amanuensis for Paul, and Barnabas. The early church historian Eusebius quoted Origen as saying, But as to who actually wrote the epistle, God knows the truth of the matter.2 However, an examination of the arguments for authorship of the most plausible of these proposed writers of Hebrews shows, that although evidence indicates no indisputable conclusion as to the authors identity, the data strongly supports the assertion that the author was most likely Pauls former mentor, long-time ministry partner, fellow missionary, and first-century evangelist and church leader, Barnabas. What the Author Reveals All that can be understood as to the authors identity must be gleaned from what he reveals about himself in the text, by way of personal comments, as well as literary and linguistic style and technique. The writer identifies himself as a second-generation Christian, having heard
Trent C. Butler ed., Letter to the Hebrews, in Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2003), 737
2 1

David S. Dockery ed., Holman Concise Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman,

1998), 619

the gospel message from those who received it directly from Jesus (Heb. 2:3). The repeated use of the term we implies that his background is the same as the recipients of the epistle, who, as the textual content demands, are Jewish Christians of the Diaspora (cf. Heb. 2:1, 3). The original readers of the epistle apparently knew his identity, as suggested by his request for prayers that he might be able to visit them (Heb. 13:1819), as well as the expression of hope that Timothy would come with him (Heb. 13:23).3 He was well-educated and highly skilled in the use of language. His sentence structure and rich vocabulary demonstrate literary elegance and creativity. His unique proficiency in the use of the Greek language indicates that he possessed a high degree of literary skill, perhaps superior to that of any New Testament writer.4 The first four verses of the epistle have been called the most perfect Greek sentence in the New Testament.5 He was also well-trained in the art of rhetorical argumentation. A single artistically crafted argument runs from beginning to end, masterfully employing oratory techniques and imagery. The author reveals an extraordinary knowledge of the Old Testament, being well-versed in the study of the Greek translation. The epistle contains over thirty direct quotes from the Septuagint, as well as numerous allusions and indirect references. He utilizes passages, people, and events from the Old Testament, and molds them into a cohesive sustained argument for the superiority of Jesus.6 The overall flavor of Hebrews is definitely of a Jewish nature.

Thomas D. Lea, Holman New Testament Commentary: Hebrews & James Vol. 10 (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman, 1999), 1
4

Floyd V. Filson, The Epistle to the Hebrews, Journal of Bible and Religion 22, no. 1 (Jan. 1954): 20 Ceslas Spicq, LEpitre aux Hebreux (Paris: J. Gabalda, 1977), 56 Butler, Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, 737

The author was a gifted expositor as well, employing numerous hermeneutical techniques, most significantly those of verbal analogy and argument from the lesser to the greater. Interwoven with profound biblical exposition is a passionate plea to his readers to stand fast in their faith, demonstrating a deep pastoral love and concern for his audience. These details, as revealed by the author himself, must be considered as primary evidence when discussing any proposed authorial candidate. Authorship of Paul The earliest references to the Epistle to the Hebrews were seen in Clement of Romes first epistle to the Corinthians at the end of the first century, but he offers no name for the author. Eastern Christianity viewed Paul as the author, even though supporters of Pauline authorship recognized that the language in Hebrews was decidedly different from Pauls known letters. In the second century, Clement of Alexandria, on the authority of Pantaenus, expressly referred to Paul as the author of Hebrews. He claimed that Paul intentionally omitted placing his name in a greeting at the beginning of the epistle because the Hebrews were prejudiced against him. He further asserted that the epistle was originally written by Paul in Hebrew for the Hebrews and Luke translated it into Greek for the Greeks, thereby explaining the literary style similar to that of Acts. Western Christianity did not officially accept Pauline authorship until the fourth century, and this was with reluctance in order that it may receive its proper place within the New Testament canon. They felt that the letter had great authority, but many saw it as anonymous and non-Pauline.7 Hebrews contains statements comparable to Pauls view of the preexistence and creative work of Christ (cf. Heb. 1:14; Col. 1:1517). Additionally, both Hebrews and 2

Lea, Holman New Testament Commentary: Hebrews & James, 1

Corinthians discuss the New Covenant (cf. Heb. 8:6; 2 Cor. 3:4-11). These factors, as well as others, inclined some to consider Paul as the author.8 The case for Pauline authorship seems to rest on three main arguments: 1) The traditional view of the Eastern church, part of which the intended recipients of the letter were most likely members, favored Pauline authorship. However, this testimony is greatly weakened by the widely acknowledged observation of a difference in style from Pauls known letters and consequent proposal of an original Hebrew text, for which there is absolutely no historic foundation. Additionally, tradition from both Western Rome and North Africa, up until Augustines day, is unquestionably against Pauline authorship. The fact that the earliest appearances of the epistle are found in the Roman church, where it was known before the close of the first century, further erodes this argument. Clement of Rome employs it extensively, but not once does he cite Paul as the author. The Muratorian Canon, dated ca. 170, includes only thirteen letters from Paul and omits Hebrews completely, as does the Roman church leader, Gaius, at the beginning of the third century. Tertullian ascribed the epistle to Barnabas. Eusebius states that the Roman church did not regard the epistle as Pauline in his day, the first half of the fourth century. Not until the Synod of Hippo and the third Synod of Carthage, under the power of Augustines influence at the end of the fourth century, did the scales begin to tip in favor of fourteen Pauline epistles. This opinion then prevailed until Erasmus and the Reformers revived the original doubts of the early Fathers. As far as early church tradition, the argument is overwhelmingly one-sided against Pauls authorship. 2) The mention of Timothy (Heb. 13:23) and the reference to release from imprisonment (Heb. 10:34) point to Paul. This does not necessarily refer to Paul, but rather,

Dockery, Holman Concise Bible Commentary, 619

others who were being persecuted. The assumed reference to Pauls own captivity stands on a misreading of the Greek text. The Textus Receptus, among other texts, incorrectly interprets the Greek as accepted,


, in my chains, rather than the understanding which is now widely , to the prisoners.9 Neither does the prayer request from the author

(Heb. 13:18-19) suggest that the writer was imprisoned when the epistle was written. To the contrary, remainder of the passage makes quite clear that the writer is free and awaits Timothys arrival (Heb. 13:23). 3) The agreement of the epistle with Pauls theology, its nature of apostolic authority, and the depth and fervor which places the epistle alongside known Pauline writings. The strengths and qualities of the epistle only serve to prove its divine inspiration and justified canonicity, not the authors identity. Several more evidences serve to refute Pauline authorship: 1) The form of Hebrews is unlike that of the typical Pauline letter of the New Testament. The inexplicable absence of Pauls customary name and greeting is quite telling, although the attempt has been made to explain this from the point of humility or Jewish prejudice against Paul. However, these allegations are quite weak and are deemed moot by the authoritative tone of the epistle. Additionally, there are far fewer personal references and greetings compared to Pauls known epistles (Heb. 6:910; 12:4).10 2) While the apostolic teaching is similar to Pauls, the literary style and structure is remarkably different and unique to the New Testament. Pauls letters have a more apologetic flavor, but Hebrews is sermon-like in its form and function. Of further note, the magnificent

Philip Schaff and David S. Schaff, History of the Christian Church, Vol. 1(Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, 1997)
10

Lea, Holman New Testament Commentary: Hebrews & James, 1

Greek style of Hebrews in no way resembles the explosive, confrontational style of teaching and argumentative persuasion that is found in most of Pauls writings. 3) Hebrews 2:3 plainly states that the writer was not an apostle who received the gospel directly from Jesus, but rather a second-generation Christian who heard the message from the apostles. This fact alone disqualifies Paul. 4) The author of Hebrews consistently cites the Septuagint, including its variations from the Hebrew, while Paul is unashamedly free to paraphrase either text and often corrects the Septuagint from the Hebrew. Also of note is the fact that the writer of Hebrews preferred the Greek text of Codex Alexandrinus, while Paul cited the Codex Vaticanus.11 The language, style, and internal characteristics of Hebrews definitively rules out Paul as the author. However, arguments built on such observations are notoriously subjective and have also been used as proofs for extremely unsound propositions. Nevertheless, it must be readily admitted that when Hebrews is read correctly in Greek and compared with the known letters of Paul, the overall impression is that the author is spiritually in sync with Paul, but remarkably different in subtle ways. This subjective impression, however, would not have been made way for if the early churchs tradition had overwhelmingly asserted Paul as the author.12 Modern scholars, however, almost unanimously believe that the internal evidence confirms it as non-Pauline. Donald Guthrie notes, Most modern writers find more difficulty in imagining how this epistle was ever attributed to Paul than in disposing of the theory.13 It is quite clear that the

Schaff and Schaff, History of the Christian Church, Vol. 1. Schaff cites the classic commentary on Hebrews by Friedrich Bleek, Der Brief an die Hebraer erlautert durch Einleitung, Uebersetzung, und fortlaufenden Commentar. Vol. 1 (Berlin: 1828), 338-375 as the source of this extensive study on the respective Greek texts quoted by Paul and the author of Hebrews. John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck ed., The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983), 777
13 12

11

Donald Guthrie, New Testament Introduction (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1976), 671

writer of Hebrews is not Paul, but bears a striking theological resemblance, suggesting that he emerged from Pauls inner circle of associates. Whoever he was, he knew Paul well and possessed a great pastoral concern for his audience. Luke: Background and Relationship with Paul Irenaeus is the first person to clearly name Luke as the author of the third Gospel and Acts. This tradition is also found in the Muratorian Canon and the so-called anti-Marcionite Prologue to the Gospel of Luke. The latter document states that Luke came from Antioch in Syria, and served the Lord without the diversions of a wife and family until he died in Boeotia at the age of 84, however, the date and credibility of this writing are uncertain. It is likely that the tradition of Lukes authorship of the Gospel which bears his name and Acts can be traced back to earlier in the 2nd century. The fact that Marcion, a zealous follower of Pauls theology, chose to recognize Lukes Gospel suggests that he considered it the work of a companion of Paul.14 Acts contains several passages written in the first person plural, i.e., we, which describe events from the viewpoint of an associate of Paul (Acts 16:1017; 20:521:18; 27:128:16). The writer of Acts identifies himself as Luke in a variant reading of Acts 20:13 which may be dated as early in the second century: But I Luke, and those who were with me, went on board.15 The literary style of Luke and Acts demonstrates that the author was well-educated with extensive talent in literary communication. Lukes abilities as a historian have been judged to be among the best of ancient historians by many scholars. Paul mentions Luke the beloved physician (Col. 4:14) among his companions in his epistles, suggesting that he had provided medical care for Paul during his imprisonment. He is

I. Howard Marshall, Luke, in New Bible Dictionary, 3rd ed., I. Howard Marshall, A. R. Millard, J. I. Packer, and D. J. Wiseman ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1996), 703
15

14

Ibid.

also described as a fellow-laborer of Paul (Phm. 24), which implies that he also aided in the spread of the gospel. There is a third reference to Luke in what may have been one of Pauls last messages, Only Luke is with me (2 Tim. 4:11), which confirms the closeness of the relationship between the two. But unlike Paul, Luke was a Gentile. Lukes esteem for Paul shines forth throughout the Pauline events of Acts. Through his recurring interaction with Paul, as well as other early Christian evangelists and teachers, Luke had numerous opportunities to hear first-hand teaching of Pauls theology. The picture of Luke which can be seen by his service, dedication to his faith, and devotion to his friend Paul is that of a modest man with considerable sympathetic tendencies who regarded himself as a servant of the Gospel of Jesus. With his substantial literary, historical, and theological gifts, he was well-able to recount the beginnings of Christianity, as well as the message of the Gospel, in a unique fashion, tailored to the needs of second-generation believers.16 Luke: Author or Amanuensis Some have suggested Luke as the writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews, as well. As previously noted, Clement of Alexandria believed Paul had written an original Hebrew text and Luke translated it into Greek, accounting for the similar of style to Acts. Likewise, Origen, in his Homilies, regards the style as distinct and more Grecian than Pauls, but views the thoughts as the apostles. He adds that the ancients who have handed down the tradition of its Pauline authorship, must have had good reason for doing so, though God alone knows the certainty of who was the actual writer, likely suggesting transcriber of the apostles thoughts.17

16

Ibid.

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Lukes literary abilities and knowledge of pure Greek certainly seem to support his candidacy as the author or amanuensis of Hebrews. He also appears to fits the description of Hebrews 2:3 as a second-generation Christian. However, a closer examination of the language and literary style, as well as the overarching theme of Hebrews is indeed warranted. As addressed earlier, all of the Old Testament quotes in Hebrews, aside from two (Heb 10:30; 13:5), are from the Septuagint. The fact that the peculiarities of the Septuagint are interwoven into the argument serves to prove that the Greek text is an original, not a translation. Had the original been Hebrew, the quotations would surely have come from the Hebrew Old Testament. It follows that the wordplay with similarly sounding Greek terms and alliterations, as well as rhythmically constructed portions of Hebrews would demand the use of Hebrew terms, had the original text been written in Hebrew. John Calvin observes that if the epistle had been written in Hebrew, Heb 9:1517 would lose its entire meaning, which is built around the play upon the double meaning of the Greek diathece, covenant or testament, whereas the Hebrew berith means only covenant.18 There is also a significantly greater accent on the Jewish culture in this epistle than in Lukes writings. Hebrews is focused on the theme of Christs superiority to the Law, particularly as a substitutional sacrifice for sin, but this doctrine seems to be nearly nonexistent in Lukes writing. Daniel Wallace suggests that this is intentional, referring to the non-parallel in Luke (cf. Matt. 20:28; Mark 10:45).19

A. R. Fausset, The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Hebrews, in A Commentary, Critical and Explanatory, on the Old and New Testaments, Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset, and David Brown (Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, 1997)
18

17

Ibid.

Daniel B. Wallace, Hebrews: Introduction, Argument, and Outline; available from http://bible.org/seriespage/hebrews-introduction-argument-and-outline#P31_4272; Internet; accessed March 5, 2010

19

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Another argument against Lukes authorship, and probably the most damaging, is the fact that the author of Hebrews was undoubtedly a native Jew preaching to a Jewish Christian church community, but Luke, however, was a Greek Gentile (Col. 4:11, 14). A non-Jew, or for that matter, even a Jew, speaking negatively about Jewish culture, tradition, and faith would most assuredly be met with indignation at the very least. Jesus was crucified for preaching the obsolescence of the Law and the Old Covenant! There is no clear evidence for attributing the authorship of Hebrews to Luke, nor is there any sound reason to believe that the Greek text is a translation of an original Hebrew text. It seems appropriate to state that Luke could have had no part whatsoever in the production of the Epistle to the Hebrews. Barnabas: Background and Relationship with Paul More is known of Barnabas than any other of Pauls close associates. Barnabas, meaning son of encouragement, is the name given by the apostles to Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus (Acts 4:36). Luke describes him as a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith (Acts 11:24). Barnabas became a Christian as a young man and one of his first gestures as a believer and member of the Jerusalem church was to sell some property and give the money to the church for the common welfare (Acts 4:37). When the converted Saul arrived in Jerusalem, only to discover that the Christians had serious apprehensions concerning his motives, it was Barnabas who introduced him to the apostles and convinced them of his conversion and sincerity (Acts 9:27; cf. Gal. 1:18). This was the beginning of a long and productive ministry partnership between the two men. It was Barnabas who represented the apostles at Antioch when Gentiles had been evangelized in significant numbers for the first time (Acts 11:19ff.). He recognized the growing

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Christian community as the work of God and a fitting environment for the misplaced Paul, whom he brought back from his home in Tarsus to Antioch in order to share in his ministry efforts for an entire year (Acts 11:2526). When visiting Jerusalem with famine-relief gathered in Antioch (Acts 11:2930), both Barnabas and Paul were personally commissioned by the Holy Spirit to take the Gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 13:2; cf. Gal. 2:9). The journey with Paul (Acts 1314), beginning in his own Cyprus, resulted in numerous predominantly Gentile churches deep into Asia Minor, as well as growing opposition from the Jews. This journey was a significant milestone for the church, for Barnabas, and especially for Paul. Barnabas had been the leader and chief spokesman throughout their labors in Cyprus, with Paul as his protg. However, that would change on the final leg of the journey into Asia Minor, when Paul, with a new boldness of spirit and purpose, assumed the leadership role. Up until their departure from Cyprus, Luke consistently names them as Barnabas and Saul, but thereafter, the order is reversed (Acts 13:43, 46, 50; 15:2, 22, 35). Back in Antioch, the issue of circumcision became so intense that Barnabas and Paul were appointed to take the matter before the Jerusalem Council, where their policy was overwhelmingly supported (Acts 15:129). Quite interestingly, Barnabas speaks before Paul in both the proceedings (Acts 15:12) and in the Councils letter (Acts 15:25), although Luke continues to name Paul first in his narrative (cf. Acts 15:22). Most likely, the authority of the original apostolic representative to Antioch was considered greater by many in the Council. The only noted point of contention between Barnabas and Paul concerned taking Mark, who had previously deserted them, on a future second journey. Barnabas insisted, but Paul refused, so the itinerary, as well as the partnership, was divided (Acts 15:3640).

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The close relationship may have ended, but not the friendship. When Paul mentions Barnabas, his words imply love and respect (cf. 1 Cor. 9:6; Gal. 2:1, 9, 13). Barnabas devotion to speaking the truth of Christ and unwavering service in ministry garnered him seemingly universal respect and had a profound impact on those around him, as well as the church. In principles and practice Barnabas and Paul were identical, and it cannot be known how much Paul owed to Barnabas.20 Authorship of Barnabas Tertullian ascribes the Epistle to the Hebrews to Barnabas as matter of fact. In On Modesty XX, he writes, I wish, however, redundantly to superadd the testimony likewise of one particular comrade of the apostles,(a testimony) aptly suited for confirming, by most proximate right, the discipline of his masters. For there is extant withal an Epistle to the Hebrews under the name of Barnabasa man sufficiently accredited by God, as being one whom Paul has stationed next to himself21 Tertullian does not speak as if this were merely his opinion, but rather common knowledge. The view that Barnabas wrote Hebrews was also supported in the fourth century by Jerome as well as writers Gregory of Elvira and Filaster. There is good reason to believe that in the ancient Western canonical manuscript, Codex Claremontanus, the Book of Hebrews bears the name of the Epistle of Barnabas.22 The arguments supporting Barnabas as the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews are concise and agree with that which Scripture reveals about him, as well as the writer of Hebrews:

A. F. Walls, Barnabas, in Eerdmans Bible Dictionary, Allen C. Myers ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1987), 123 Alexander Roberts, James Donaldson and A. Cleveland Coxe ed., The Ante-Nicene Fathers Vol. IV: Translations of the Writings of the Fathers Down to A.D. 325 (Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, 1997), 97.
22 21

20

Walvoord and Zuck , The Bible Knowledge Commentary, Vol. 2, 778

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1) He was a Levite and would naturally be interested and well-schooled in the Levitical sacrificial system. 2) Due to his extended time in ministry with Paul, the similarities of the theological teaching in Hebrews to that of Pauls are easily justified. 3) Timothy had been converted in the area of Barnabas and Pauls first missionary journey (Acts 16:1-3), so is probable that Timothy was acquainted with Barnabas. Additionally, as they were both within Pauls inner circle, it is quite possible that they had been with Paul at the same time. 4) Since Barnabas was from Cyprus, most likely he would have been influenced by Hellenism and Alexandrian thought, which is expressed throughout the epistle. 5) Possible repeated contact with Alexandria may account for a proficiency in Greek. 6) Barnabas was converted shortly after Pentecost and could have been influenced by Stephens teaching. Parallels of Stephens speech in Acts 7 can be found throughout Hebrews.23 7) There is no reason to believe that Barnabas continued on a Gentile mission following the split with Paul prior to the second journey. He could very well have ministered to the Jews. 8) Barnabas mediated between Paul and Jewish Christians in Acts 9 and perhaps continued to do so afterward.24 9) The undeniable written affirmation of Tertullian is unequalled among all of the proposed authors. 10) If Hebrews was indeed authored by Barnabas, then it can truly claim apostolic authority since Barnabas was considered by the apostles as one of their own (Acts 14:4, 14). Regardless of the preponderance of evidence, the authorship of Barnabas cannot be
23

Wallace, Hebrews: Introduction, Argument, and Outline Ibid.

24

15

undeniably proven, any more that of any other suggested writer. It does, however, enjoy substantially more indisputable evidence than any other plausible suggestion. Conclusion Examination of the three most reasonable proposals for the authorship of the Epistle to the Hebrews has shown that Paul, in no way, could have been the writer. It has been clearly refuted that Luke did not author Hebrews, nor is it possible that an original Hebrew text could have existed, which he could have translated into Greek. And finally, the abundance of corroborating evidence points to Barnabas as the most likely writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews. As the Son of Encouragement(Acts 4:36), Barnabas very well may have written the word of exhortation (Heb. 13:22). As Filson summarizes, The only ancient tradition worth considering is that of Tertullian, who said that Barnabas wrote Hebrews.25

25

Filson, The Epistle to the Hebrews, 21

16

Bibliography
Butler, Trent C., ed. Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary. Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2003. Dockery, David S., ed. Holman Concise Bible Commentary. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman, 1998. Fausset, A. R. "The Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Hebrews." In A Commentary, Critical and Explanatory, on the Old and New Testaments, by Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research systems, 1997. Filson, Floyd V. "The Epistle to the Hebrews." Journal of Bible and Religion 22, no. 1 (Jan. 1954): 20-26. Guthrie, Donald. New Testament Introduction. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1976. Lea, Thomas D. Holman New Testament Commentary: Hebrews & James. Vol. 10. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman, 1999. Marshall, I. Howard, A. R. Millard, J. I. Packer, and D. J. Wiseman, ed. New Bible Dictionary. 3rd ed. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1996. Roberts, Alexander, James Donaldson, and A. Cleveland Coxe, ed. The Ante-Nicene Fathers Vol. IV: Translations of the Writings of the Fathers Down to A.D. 325. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, 1997. Schaff, Philip, and David S. Schaff. History of the Christian Church. Vol. 1. Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, 1997. Spicq, Ceslas. L'Epitre aux Hebreux. Paris: J. Gabalda, 1977. Wallace, Daniel B. "Hebrews: Introduction, Argument, and Outline." available from http://bible.org/seriespage/hebrews-introduction-argument-and-outline#P31_4272 (accessed March 5, 2010). Walls, A. F. "Barnabas." In The Eerdmans Bible Dictionary, edited by Allen C. Myers, 126. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1987. Walvoord, John F., and Roy B. Zuck, ed. The Bible Knowledge Commentary. Vol. 2. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983.

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