Matthew Poole and continuators on Acts 13:2

2 As they ministred to the Lord, and fasted, the holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul p, for the work whereunto I have called them.

The word importeth the exercise of any publick Office, Sacred or Civil. But in the former verse mention being made of Prophets and Teachers, these words are in sense too conjoyn'd with them; and informs us, that whilst they were Preaching to, and Instructing of the People, (for there is no Ministry or Service which God likes better than to convert and save Souls) and that all might be more effectual, as being done with greater earnestness and intention of mind, whilst they fasted.

The Holy Ghost by some inward instinct in those Prophets before spoken of, who had warrant to declare it as from him.

These two were to be separated as the first-born under the Law, Exod. 13.12. and after them, or in their stead, the Levites, Numbers 3.12. So were Paul and Barnabas in especial manner separated for the calling in of the Gentiles, that great Ministry or Service which God had for them to do.

Marginal references: Chap 9.15. & 22.21. Rom. 1.1.; Matth. 9.38. Rom. 10.15. Heb. 5.4.