Act 13:2, 14:23, 2Cor 6:5, 11:27 | PNT | STEP | As they ministered . These men worshiped before the Lord, fasting, and no doubt asking for guidance in the extension of Christianity. The Holy Ghost said . By an inspiration given to some one of these prophets. "God has spoken at sundry times and in divers manners unto the fathers by the one of these prophets" ( ). Compare . Separate me Barnabas and Saul . Both had been tried and shown to be worthy. They are now, by Divine direction, to be formally consecrated to the work of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. From this time Antioch is the great missionary center. For the work whereunto I have called them . God called; men separated, or formally set apart.

Acts 13:2

As they ministered. These men worshiped before the Lord, fasting, and no doubt asking for guidance in the extension of Christianity.

The Holy Ghost said. By an inspiration given to some one of these prophets. "God has spoken at sundry times and in divers manners unto the fathers by the one of these prophets" (Heb 1:1). Compare Ac 20:23.

Separate me Barnabas and Saul. Both had been tried and shown to be worthy. They are now, by Divine direction, to be formally consecrated to the work of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. From this time Antioch is the great missionary center.

For the work whereunto I have called them. God called; men separated, or formally set apart.

Acts 14:23

And when they had ordained them elders. Observe (1) that elders were not appointed as soon as the churches were planted; time must be taken so as to know what men were fitted for the office; (2) that elders were not appointed to preside over a district, but "in every church"; (3) that there was a plurality; (4) that they were set apart with fasting, prayer, and imposition of hands. It is not here stated who selected the men, but from Ac 6:6 we would infer that they were chosen by the church under the advice of the apostles.

2 Corinthians 6:5

In stripes. See 2Co 11:23,24.

In imprisonments. He was imprisoned at Philippi (Ac 16:24), Jerusalem (Ac 22:24), Caesarea (Ac 24:23), and Rome (Ac 28:16), at least.

In tumults. See Ac 14:19 16:22 19:29 21:30.

2 Corinthians 11:27

In weariness and painfulness, etc. Often weary and in pain. The verse shows the self-denial made necessary in preaching the gospel. Often in want, hungry, naked and cold. Why should all these have been endured? Nothing but overwhelming conviction and love could have led him to this sacrifice himself.