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Barnabas must have been struck with the coincidence between his own conduct towards the newly-enfranchised converts at Antioch (Acts 11:22-23) and that of the apostles towards the delegates of these converts.

I. What the apostles SAW —

1. In Paul and Barnabas personally. The closest scrutiny of speech, deportment, aim, could create but one impression.

2. In their work; the conversion of the Gentles and the uprising of so many Christian Churches could be due only to Divine grace.

II. What they FELT.

1. That the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed to Paul. The conclusion was irresistible.

2. That Paul was as worthy of his commission as was Peter.

III. What they DID.

1. Gave the delegates the right hand of fellowship.

(1)  Spontaneously. Paul did not ask for it.

(2)  Heartily.

(3)  Irrevocably.

2. Assigned to Paul and Peter —

(1)  the spheres which each could best work;

(2)  the honours to which each was entitled.Learn:

1. That God's grace when experienced should be employed in work for Him.

2. That true worth is determined not by rank, but by work.

3. That honest work ultimately confers the highest rank.

4. That harmonious and effective working is best promoted by a division of labour.

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KJV: But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

WEB: but to the contrary, when they saw that I had been entrusted with the Good News for the uncircumcision, even as Peter with the Good News for the circumcision