Joel M Bradshaw

1Now 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. 2While 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.” 3So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.–Acts 13

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. (Hebrews 4:12-13)

1. First, before I pose a question, please recognize the sovereign work of the Holy Spirit in this passage in Acts 13.
2. The Holy Spirit did the calling. He is God.
3. Now in order for this passage to make sense, the Holy Spirit had to speak to all the leaders present. Not some private prayer moment.
4. This is the normal Greek word for talking to someone.
5. Do you consider the Holy Spirit publicly speaking to a group of people to be the normal practice for today? If so, you view Acts as prescriptive.
6. You may see this passage instead as a unique time in church history before the much of the Bible was even written down. Therefore, not repeatable as the normal expectation of the church. Acts would be descriptive instead of prescriptive.
7. I myself personally believe that the Holy Spirit works with the Bible He inspired. As I read and study Scripture, I receive the guidance I require from the Holy Spirit. I don’t go listening for a public voice. The Bible is sufficient.–JMB