In the first few verses of this passage, we’re reminded of an important role of the Church. The Church should be preparing us for the mission field. God asked this particular church to set apart Paul and Barnabas for the work he has called them to do. It’s a prime role of the Church. The Church isn’t just about getting a bunch of information about the Bible into our heads. It’s not just about reforming our character. (Although it should do that.) It should be preparing us to take the Gospel into the world. How can we make our churches environments that make us more effective missionaries in our communities, in our nation, and around the world?
