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.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. (Acts 13:2-3 NIV)
In Acts 13, the church at Antioch models what it looks like to truly seek God together. In a diverse yet united body, believers worshiped, prayed, and fasted until the Holy Spirit made His will clear. God spoke in the context of community, and the church was listening. Discerning God’s will was not rushed or individualistic—it flowed from a shared commitment to seek Him and obey whatever He revealed.
Just as clearly, the missionaries were sent by the local church under Christ’s authority. This reminds us that God works through His gathered people. As an autonomous church, we are responsible to listen to the Spirit, affirm God’s call, and take part in His mission. The question for each of us is simple but searching: are we willing to be part of a church that prays deeply, obeys promptly, and sends faithfully—whether that means going ourselves or supporting those whom God sends?
Rev. Jeremy Newborn
