Acts 13:3 - Fasting, Prayer, and the Sending
The Early Church's Model for Missionary Commissioning
Last Updated: March 31, 2026
The Key Verse
Acts 13:3 marks a pivotal moment in church history—the first intentional sending of missionaries by the Holy Spirit through the church. This verse captures the spiritual disciplines and practices that should accompany every gospel mission: fasting, prayer, and formal commissioning.
Historical Context: The Church at Antioch
Antioch of Syria was the third-largest city in the Roman Empire (after Rome and Alexandria). The church there was founded by believers scattered after Stephen's martyrdom (Acts 11:19-21). It became the first major center of Gentile Christianity and the launching point for Paul's missionary journeys.
The church at Antioch was characterized by:
- Diverse Leadership: Prophets and teachers from different backgrounds (Acts 13:1)
- Worship and Service: They ministered to the Lord regularly (Acts 13:2)
- Sensitivity to the Spirit: They recognized and responded to the Holy Spirit's voice
- Obedience: They acted immediately on God's calling without hesitation
The Five Leaders of Antioch
Acts 13:1 identifies five prophets and teachers in the Antioch church:
A Levite from Cyprus who sold his property to support the church. Known for encouraging others and vouching for Paul when others feared him.
Likely from North Africa. His nickname "Niger" suggests he may have been a man of African descent, showing the church's diversity.
From Cyrene in North Africa (modern Libya). Possibly among those who first preached to Gentiles in Antioch (Acts 11:20).
Connected to the highest levels of power. His relationship to Herod the tetrarch suggests he came from nobility.
Once the church's greatest enemy, now its most passionate advocate. A Pharisee trained under Gamaliel, chosen as apostle to the Gentiles.
The Sequence of Events
"As they ministered to the Lord and fasted" (Acts 13:2). The leaders were engaged in regular worship and service.
"The Holy Spirit said: 'Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them'" (Acts 13:2).
"Then, having fasted and prayed" (Acts 13:3). They didn't act immediately but sought God further through spiritual disciplines.
"And laid hands on them" (Acts 13:3). A formal act of commissioning, identification, and blessing.
"They sent them away" (Acts 13:3). The church released them for the mission God had ordained.
The Role of Fasting
Fasting in Scripture is not about manipulating God but about:
- Humility: Acknowledging dependence on God rather than physical strength
- Focus: Removing distractions to hear God more clearly
- Seriousness: Recognizing the weight and importance of the decision
- Spiritual Power: Tapping into God's strength rather than human ability
- Unity: Seeking God's will together as a community
The church fasted after hearing the Spirit's call, demonstrating that even clear direction from God should be accompanied by continued seeking and confirmation.
The Role of Prayer
Prayer accompanied fasting as the church sought God's guidance. Prayer in this context served multiple purposes:
- Confirmation: Seeking assurance that this was truly God's will
- Blessing: Asking God to empower Barnabas and Saul for their mission
- Protection: Praying for their safety on dangerous journeys
- Partnership: Committing to support them even while they were away
The Laying on of Hands
The laying on of hands was a significant biblical practice with multiple meanings:
- Identification: The church identified with Barnabas and Saul's mission
- Commissioning: Formal authorization and sending
- Blessing: Imparting spiritual encouragement and strength
- Unity: Demonstrating that they went as representatives of the whole church
This act was not about transferring authority but about affirming God's call and expressing solidarity with those being sent.
Lessons for Modern Missions
The call came while leaders were "ministering to the Lord." Prioritize worship, and God will reveal His purposes.
God called first; the church responded. Missions is God's work, not human invention.
Before action came spiritual discipline. Don't rush into ministry without seeking God.
Prayer wasn't optional—it was essential. Every missionary needs a praying church.
The laying on of hands provided clarity, accountability, and encouragement.
Though the Spirit called, the church sent. Mission requires both divine calling and human obedience.
The Results of Obedience
The obedience of the Antioch church launched what would become:
- Three Missionary Journeys: Paul traveled thousands of miles spreading the gospel
- Church Planting: Dozens of churches established across the Roman Empire
- New Testament Letters: Much of the New Testament written as a result
- Gentile Inclusion: The gospel officially extended beyond Jewish boundaries
- Christianity's Spread: The foundation for Christianity becoming a world religion
Application for Today's Churches
For Churches Considering Mission Support:
- Establish regular times of corporate fasting and prayer
- Listen for the Holy Spirit's direction about who to send
- Provide formal commissioning services for missionaries
- Commit to ongoing prayer and financial support
- Maintain relationship with those you send
For Individuals Feeling Called:
- Seek confirmation through prayer and fasting
- Submit to church leadership for discernment
- Be willing to wait for God's timing
- Understand that calling comes through service
- Accept the support and accountability of your church
Prayer for Mission
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of the church at Antioch. Teach us to be a people who worship You earnestly, fast sincerely, and pray persistently.
Lord, speak to us by Your Holy Spirit. Call out workers for Your harvest, and give us courage to send them. May our church be known for obedience to Your mission.
Bless those You are calling today. Give them strength for the journey, wisdom for the challenges, and fruitfulness in their labor. May many come to know Christ through their witness.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
References and Further Study
- The Holy Bible, New King James Version. Thomas Nelson, 1982.
- Stott, John. The Message of Acts. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 1990.
- Schnabel, Eckhard J. Early Christian Mission. Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2004.
- Peterson, David G. The Acts of the Apostles. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2009.
- Bock, Darrell L. Acts. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2007.
Editorial Review: This content has been reviewed for biblical accuracy by our editorial team. All scriptural references are from verified translations.
Theological Note: This devotional study is intended for personal edification and church mission planning. For deeper theological study, consult qualified biblical scholars and commentaries.