1Now there were in Antioch, in the local assembly, prophets and teachers: Barnabas, and Simeon called Niger, and Lucius the Cyrenian, and Manaen who had been raised with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. [13:2] While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Do set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." [13:3] Then, having fasted and prayed and placed their hands on them, they released them.
ACT 13:1-3
Paulʼs First Missionary Journey Begins
In the world it was spoken into
In Antioch, a major urban center of the Roman Empire, the (assembly) was a diverse community, including Jews, Gentiles, and Hellenistic Jews. The mention of prophets and teachers reflects the early Christian practice of leadership rooted in spiritual gifts rather than formal hierarchy. The names listed—Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius the Cyrenian, Manaen ( of Herod the tetrarch), and Saul—highlight the cultural and social diversity of this group. Manaen’s connection to Herod suggests ties to the Herodian court, a significant political institution. The act of fasting and praying before commissioning Barnabas and Saul aligns with Jewish practices of seeking divine guidance. The laying on of hands signifies a formal act of blessing and authorization, common in Jewish and early Christian contexts. The Holy Spirit’s directive to (set apart) Barnabas and Saul underscores their divine calling for a specific mission, reflecting the early church’s understanding of God’s active role in directing their work.
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How other translations render this
ACT 13:1
- KJV
- Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
- BSB
- Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch), and Saul.
- Koinōnos
- Now there were in Antioch, in the local assembly, prophets and teachers: Barnabas, and Simeon called Niger, and Lucius the Cyrenian, and Manaen who had been raised with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.
ACT 13:2
- KJV
- As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
- BSB
- 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.”
- Koinōnos
- While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Do set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.
ACT 13:3
- KJV
- And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
- BSB
- And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
- Koinōnos
- Then, having fasted and prayed and placed their hands on them, they released them.
Only verses where the wording diverges meaningfully are shown. Identical phrasings are suppressed.
Translator's notes
ACT 13:1
- is:The word translated 'is' here refers to an assembly or gathering of citizens, often formally summoned for public business, not just any casual meeting.
- tetrarch:The term used here for 'tetrarch' indicates someone who was raised alongside another, often a foster-brother or companion from childhood, implying a close, intimate relationship.
ACT 13:2
- As were ministering:The phrase 'As were ministering' describes performing a public service or duty, often at one's own expense, which could include religious or civic functions.
- do set apart:The word translated 'do set apart' means to mark off or separate something by boundaries, often for a specific purpose or dedication, implying a deliberate and distinct separation.