Acts 13:1-3·~1 min
Paul’s First Missionary Journey Begins
The church at Antioch includes prophets and teachers from varied places and histories, and while they worship the Lord and fast the Holy Spirit sets apart Barnabas and Saul for a particular work. After more fasting and prayer, the church lays hands on them and sends them off.
N1ow in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
Section summaryIn the church at Antioch a diverse group of prophets and teachers is named, and while they worship and fast the Holy Spirit tells them to set apart Barnabas and Saul for a work already prepared for them. After fasting, praying, and laying hands on them, the church sends them off.
Role in the chapterThis opening movement presents mission as something born in worship, fasting, and obedience rather than private ambition. The journey begins from a gathered church listening to the Spirit together.