ACTS 13:1–3
THE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH SENDS BARNABAS AND SAUL ON MISSION
Text – Acts 13:1–3
1 Now there were in the Church at Antioch prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, a close friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
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.”
3 Then, completing their fasting and prayer, they laid hands on them and sent them off.
Historical and Jewish Context
Antioch emerges as a major missionary center, marked by cultural and ethnic diversity. The list of leaders reflects a community shaped by Jews and Gentiles, elites and commoners, revealing the inclusive nature of the early Church. Fasting and communal worship were deeply rooted in Jewish spiritual practice, often accompanying moments of discernment and divine guidance. The act of laying on of hands echoes Old Testament traditions of commissioning for sacred service and affirms continuity between Israel’s heritage and the Church’s mission.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage marks the formal beginning of the Church’s intentional missionary outreach to the Gentile world. Mission originates not from human planning but from the Holy Spirit, discerned through prayer, fasting, and worship. The Church does not merely “send” Barnabas and Saul on its own authority but recognizes and cooperates with God’s call. The laying on of hands signifies ecclesial confirmation, blessing, and unity with the wider Church. Mission, therefore, is both charismatic and institutional—Spirit-led and Church-affirmed.
Parallels in Scripture
Isaiah 6:8 – “Here I am; send me!”
Exodus 13:21 – God guiding His people
Matthew 28:19 – The missionary command
Acts 6:6 – Laying on of hands for ministry
Romans 10:15 – Sent to proclaim the Gospel
Key Terms
Prophets and teachers – Spirit-gifted leaders of the Church
Worshiping and fasting – Discerning God’s will through prayer
Set apart – Consecration for divine mission
Holy Spirit said – God as initiator of mission
Laying on of hands – Ecclesial commissioning and blessing
Sent off – Church participating in God’s mission
Catholic Liturgical Significance
Acts 13:1–3 is proclaimed during the Easter Season and in missionary celebrations. It shapes the Church’s understanding of vocation, mission, and the role of communal discernment in sending ministers.
Conclusion
Acts 13:1–3 reveals a Church attentive to the Holy Spirit and willing to release its leaders for the sake of the Gospel. Mission flows from worship, prayer, and obedience, inaugurating a new phase in the spread of salvation to the nations.
Reflection
Do I seek God’s will through prayer and fasting?
Am I open to the Holy Spirit’s call, even when it involves sacrifice?
How do I support the Church’s missionary mission today?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, guide Your Church as You guided the community at Antioch. Teach me to listen attentively, to discern faithfully, and to respond generously to Your call, that the Gospel may reach all peoples through willing hearts. Amen.