How the "EFFECTS" of God's Grace "AFFECTS" Man's Faith

In Acts 11, Barnabas "saw" the grace of God. What did he see when he saw "the GRACE of God"? 

A close reading of the text reveals the answer. As with the Holy Spirit, while He is not a visible, physical being, we can see the EFFECTS of His work. We can also see how the Holy Spirit works thru a preached message ~ the gospel. 

This is how it is with "seeing" God's grace. We "see" the EFFECTS of grace in people's RESPONSE to what was PREACHED. The RESPONSE reveals what was preached in the message. 

Thus, grace appears in connection with, or through the preached message or word.

Here is the text of Acts 11:19-23:

[Again, look for what Barnabas "saw".]

19 They therefore that were scattered abroad upon the tribulation that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia, and Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to none save only to Jews.

20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus.

21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number that believed turned unto the Lord.

22 And the report concerning them came to the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas as far as Antioch:

23 who, when he was come, and had seen the grace of God, was glad; and he exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord:

When Barnabas saw people "believe" and "turn to the Lord", he saw the EFFECTS of grace. God's GRACE came to these people thru the message...the GOSPEL. 

The apostle Paul explained it to Titus in this way:

"For the grace of God hath appeared, bringing salvation to all men, INSTRUCTING us, to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world..." ~ Titus 2:11-12

God's GRACE instructed these people to "TURN" to the Lord; this describes their repentance. The message of truth calls upon all to repent, in order to be forgiven.

Acts 3:19 - "Repent ye therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out..."

Heb. 11:6 - "Repent ye therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out..."