{2} And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

(2) Fasting and solemn prayers were used before the laying on of hands.

People's New Testament

13:3 When they had fasted and prayed. This verse shows how they were set apart. It was by fasting, prayer, and the laying on of hands. They were not thus set apart to an order or rank in the kingdom, but to a work unto which they were called. They were not made priests, or bishops, but missionaries. This act did not make Paul an apostle. Christ chose him, as he had Peter, John and the others.

They sent them away. As the missionaries of the church at Antioch to the heathen. We find that they return to report to the church after a long missionary tour (Ac 14:27).

Wesley's Notes

13:3 Then having fasted - Again. Thus they did also, Acts 14:23.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

3. laid their hands on them-(See on [2001]Ac 6:6)-"recommending them to the grace of God for the work which they had to fulfil" (Ac 14:26).

sent them away-with the double call-of the Spirit first, and next of the Church. So clothed, their mission is thus described: "They being sent forth by the Holy Ghost." Have we not here for all time the true principle of appointment to sacred offices?

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

13:1-3 What an assemblage was here! In these names we see that the Lord raises up instruments for his work, from various places and stations in life; and zeal for his glory induces men to give up flattering connexions and prospects to promote his cause. It is by the Spirit of Christ that his ministers are made both able and willing for his service, and taken from other cares that would hinder in it. Christ's ministers are to be employed in Christ's work, and, under the Spirit's guidance, to act for the glory of God the Father. They are separated to take pains, and not to take state. A blessing upon Barnabas and Saul in their present undertaking was sought for, and that they might be filled with the Holy Ghost in their work. Whatever means are used, or rules observed, the Holy Ghost alone can fit ministers for their important work, and call them to it.