Acts 13:1
Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
The church at Antioch had certain prophets and teachers, namely Barnabas, and Simeon called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, and Saul. Those leaders included believers from varied backgrounds, and Barnabas and Saul had already labored there together for a year without yet being formally ordained. As those leaders ministered to God and fasted, the Holy Spirit directed that Barnabas and Saul be set apart for missionary work among the Gentiles. In this way Antioch became the base for a vigorous mission to the Gentiles.
Their dedication through fasting, prayer, and the laying on of hands publicly recognized their divine appointment. That public setting apart gave them the church's full ecclesiastical authorization to teach, to baptize, and to organize churches. The laying on of hands asked God to bless them but added no new grace or qualification. It was an ordination and recognition connected with their future work, yet the act itself imparted no special power or qualification for every kind of ministry.
The chapter gives light for the church's work and conduct, showing that God does not encourage false theories or a low standard. His people must seek Him earnestly and humble their hearts before Him. That history of God working through His delegated messengers to separate Barnabas and Saul is recorded to inspire present believers to work earnestly, for what God did then He waits to do today with even greater necessity.
Every church member is to do all the apostles did, with more fervor and the Holy Spirit in greater measure. Increased wickedness demands a more decided call to repentance, and the end of all things is at hand, so the zeal of the church now should exceed even that of the early church. Through the indications of providence the same voice is still calling for the separation of men whom He is fitting to stand in their lot and in their place. The preparation is sincere devotion and humble, earnest prayer bringing close communion with Christ, realization of debt to Him, and living faith claiming the promises. It brings compassion for those in darkness, reflection of light in clear distinct rays, and witness with mighty power to redeeming love and Christ crucified, accompanied by His abiding presence.