It is possible that a prophetic utterance was given by one of the prophets, and that this was the means by which the Holy Spirit made his will clear to the office bearers serving in Antioch.1 The fact that a direct imperative is given by the Holy Spirit supports this understanding.2 Alternatively, given the fact that the conclusion of the deliberations of office bearers in Jerusalem is understood as being in line with the will of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 15:28), it is also possible that the council simply came to a conclusion following their time of fasting and prayer. The Spirit is known to speak through human agency (Acts 4:25).3 In this case, the apostle Paul probably made a suggestion for ministry in Cyprus and Galatia, drawing attention to the mandate which he had previously received from Jesus Christ (see Acts 9:15–16).
2 While 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.”