Acts 6
Acts chapter 6 begins with internal problems that arose as the Jerusalem church grew rapidly. Complaints break out over the issue of widows being neglected in aid between Hellenists (Jews who speak Greek) and Hebrews (Jews who speak Hebrew). This shows that these were the natural difficulties that came up as people with diverse backgrounds gathered during the church’s growth.
1verseNow in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, a complaint arose from the Hellenists against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily service.
2verseThe twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not appropriate for us to forsake the word of God and serve tables.
3verseTherefore, select from among you, brothers, seven men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4verseBut we will continue steadfastly in prayer and in the ministry of the word.”
5verseThese words pleased the whole multitude. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch,
6versewhom they set before the apostles. When they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
7verseThe word of God increased and the number of the disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem. A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
8verseStephen, full of faith and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.
9verseBut some of those who were of the synagogue called “The Libertines”, and of the Cyrenians, of the Alexandrians, and of those of Cilicia and Asia arose, disputing with Stephen.
10verseThey weren’t able to withstand the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.
11verseThen they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”
12verseThey stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes, and came against him and seized him, then brought him in to the council,
13verseand set up false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking blasphemous words against this holy place and the law.
14verseFor we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.”
15verseAll who sat in the council, fastening their eyes on him, saw his face like it was the face of an angel.
The Appointment of the Seven Deacons and the Role of the Apostles
Rather than personally handling the practical administration of the relief ministry, the apostles appoint seven men who are filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom to take on that work. The apostles focus only on prayer and the ministry of the word, while the deacons devote themselves to practical relief and service. Through this scene, we can see how the division of roles and the balance of ministries take shape within the church.
The Appearance of Stephen and the Expansion of the Gospel
Among the newly appointed deacons, Stephen is mentioned as standing out especially. He is full of grace and power, and he performs great signs and wonders. However, as Stephen’s activities expand, opponents rise up and a debate begins. This reflects how the church gradually increases its influence in society.
Stephen’s Suffering and a Turning Point for the Gospel
Those who were jealous of Stephen set up false witnesses and bring charges against him to the religious leaders. This suggests that the gospel will continue to expand even amid new challenges and persecution. Stephen’s story becomes an important turning point at the crossroads of the hardships faced by the early church’s believers and the gospel unfolding in new ways.
Meditation Points
- As the church grows, reflect on how we can bring together the various opinions and needs that arise and resolve them harmoniously as one.
- Think about discovering each person’s role and gifts in God’s work and living faithfully in fulfilling what they are entrusted with.
Apply It to Me
- In the community I belong to, let me reflect on what areas require service and cooperation, and let’s begin with small tasks I can actually put into practice.
- In my life of faith, I also check whether I am faithfully carrying out the mission given to me by God with the gifts as I live—just as an apostle or a deacon would.
