Preparation for Service

It is clear how the Lord is with His people. There are judgements upon those who oppose God such as Herod. But there are blessings on the Lord' servants. God showed His approval of the works of the apostles by the signs and wonders which He enabled them to work. Now He clearly indicates that the work of preaching to the Gentiles should take place in earnest. This call to Saul and Barnabas happens in the local church in Antioch. The local church is the place where calls to the work of ministry are to be tested and recognised. They were already busy in the work and worshipping the Lord. If we could know what the Lord would have us to do, we must be involved in the work already. Another feature of their life is that the church prayed and fasted. Fasting is coupled to prayer at particular times of need and emergency or when embarking upon new ventures for the Lord or a new phase of His work. Everyone is called to some work of service.