Acts 13:2

Ministered. The Greek leitourgeo, “to minister,” was used in secular Greek for service by a state official and in the LXX and NT for priestly ministry (Num. 18:2; Heb. 10:11). Paul used it figuratively of his ministry to the Gentiles, likening himself to a priest presenting the Gentiles as offerings to God (Rom. 15:16).

To the Lord. The ministry of the prophets and teachers at Antioch—prayer, exhortation, teaching—was dedicated to God (Rom. 14:18; Col. 3:24).

Fasted. A solemn act of devotion as the men of Antioch faced their work. “A full stomach neither studies diligently nor offers devout prayers.” See Matt. 4:2, 3.

The Holy Ghost said. The Spirit doubtless spoke His will through the prophets’ lips, as in Acts 20:23.

Separate. The Greek particle de following the verb indicates the command was definite and to be executed immediately. Barnabas and Saul were to be set apart for a new work.

Barnabas and Saul. Their previous companionship is noted in Acts 9:27; 11:25, 26. Saul was called a “vessel of election” (Acts 9:15) intended for extensive missionary service. Barnabas was logically selected as Saul’s collaborator. Up to this time they had been among the prophets and teachers of the church. Now they were sent out on a distinct mission, by inspired command, consecrated to apostleship among the Gentiles.

For the work. Since the command came from the Holy Spirit, the general course of the First Missionary Journey was likely outlined by the Spirit. There is no record that the church planned the journey.