Acts 13:2 – “While 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.’”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes a significant moment in the early church—the calling of Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for a special mission. The church leaders in Antioch were worshiping and fasting, seeking God’s direction. In response, the Holy Spirit spoke to them, making it clear that Barnabas and Saul were to be set apart for God’s work.
To be “set apart” means to be chosen for a special purpose. Barnabas and Saul had already been serving the church, but now God was calling them to something even greater—spreading the gospel to new places. This marks the beginning of Paul’s missionary journeys, which would take the message of Jesus to the Gentile world.
The fact that this calling happened in the middle of worship and fasting shows the importance of seeking God’s will. It wasn’t human ambition or personal plans that sent these men on their mission—it was God’s Spirit leading them. The church didn’t act impulsively; they were praying and listening to God’s voice.
This verse highlights a key truth: God calls people to specific work for His kingdom, and He speaks when His people are devoted to prayer and worship.
Historical Context
At this time, the church in Antioch was growing, and it was one of the first places where both Jews and Gentiles worshiped together. The leaders of the church were seeking God’s guidance, likely about how to continue spreading the gospel.
The idea of fasting and worshiping together was common in Jewish and early Christian practice. Fasting wasn’t just about going without food; it was a way to humble oneself before God and seek His direction.
Barnabas was a respected leader, known for his generosity and encouragement (Acts 4:36-37). Saul, later called Paul, had been dramatically converted from persecuting Christians to preaching Christ (Acts 9). Both men had been actively teaching in Antioch (Acts 11:25-26), but now God was preparing them for a greater mission—to take the gospel beyond the local church and into the world.
This event also marks a turning point in the book of Acts. Up until this point, the gospel had mostly spread to Jews or through divine interventions (like Peter and Cornelius in Acts 10). Now, for the first time, the church intentionally sends missionaries to other regions.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several important truths:
- God calls people for His work. Barnabas and Saul didn’t volunteer themselves; God called them through His Spirit. In the same way, Christian ministry is not about personal ambition but about answering God’s call.
- The Holy Spirit leads the church. The Spirit spoke while the believers were worshiping and fasting, showing that God guides His people when they seek Him.
- Mission work is initiated by God. This wasn’t a human plan—it was God’s mission. The church didn’t decide to send missionaries; they responded to God’s direction.
- Prayer and fasting prepare the heart to hear God. The leaders were actively seeking God when He spoke. This shows that spiritual disciplines like prayer and fasting help believers tune in to God’s will.
Literary Analysis
Luke, the writer of Acts, presents this event in a way that emphasizes God’s direction. The phrase “the Holy Spirit said” is significant because it shows direct divine involvement. This wasn’t a vague feeling or personal conviction—it was a clear call from God.
The structure of the verse is also important. The leaders were already worshiping and fasting when God spoke. This shows a cause-and-effect relationship: as they sought God, He revealed His will.
The command “Set apart for me” shows that God had already chosen Barnabas and Saul for this work. He wasn’t making a last-minute decision; He had a plan all along. The phrase “the work to which I have called them” confirms that God had already been preparing them for this mission.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 9:37-38 – Jesus tells His disciples to pray for workers for the harvest, showing that God calls people into His mission.
- Acts 9:15 – God tells Ananias that Saul is His chosen instrument to take the gospel to the Gentiles, kings, and Israelites.
- Romans 10:14-15 – Paul later writes about the importance of sending people to preach the gospel.
- Ephesians 2:10 – We are created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to do.
- 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 – Paul teaches that God gives different spiritual gifts and calls people for different purposes in the church.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that God still calls people today. Whether it’s mission work, pastoral ministry, or serving in local churches, God has a purpose for each believer.
It also challenges Christians to prioritize prayer and fasting. Many people struggle to know God’s will, but this passage shows that when we seek Him, He speaks. Worshiping, praying, and fasting are not just religious activities; they are ways to align our hearts with God’s plan.
Additionally, the church played a crucial role in confirming and sending Barnabas and Saul. This means that believers should not act alone when they feel called to ministry but should seek the confirmation and support of their local church.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in how He actively leads and directs His people. He doesn’t leave us to figure things out on our own; He speaks, guides, and equips us for His work.
The fact that God chose Barnabas and Saul for this mission shows His love for the world. He wanted the gospel to spread beyond Antioch, so He sent messengers to bring His good news to others. This reflects God’s heart for the lost (2 Peter 3:9) and His desire for all people to know Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This moment in Acts fulfills Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19-20 to go and make disciples of all nations. Barnabas and Saul’s calling is a direct continuation of Jesus’ mission.
It also connects to Luke 4:18-19, where Jesus declares that He has been anointed to preach good news to the poor, proclaim freedom for the prisoners, and set the oppressed free. In Acts 13, the Holy Spirit now sends others to continue that mission.
Furthermore, this passage points to Jesus as the head of the church (Colossians 1:18). It is through His Spirit that He directs and leads His people to accomplish His mission.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this passage shape the way we think about missions and evangelism today?
- In what ways do you seek God’s guidance when making important decisions?
- How does this passage encourage us to be more intentional in prayer and fasting?
- What role does the local church play in confirming and sending people for ministry today?
- Do you feel that God is calling you to a specific work? If so, how can you prepare yourself to follow His leading?
Acts 13:2 is a powerful reminder that God speaks to His people, calls them for His work, and empowers them through His Spirit. May we, like the early church, be faithful in seeking His will and following where He leads!