Acts 6:1-7
But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.” Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them. So God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.
1. Growing pains can lead to many problems in the church. (v. 1)
2. A ministry plan is necessary to address the many needs of the church. (v. 2-3)
3. The success of a ministry plan is dependent on the priorities of the church. (v. 2-4)
4. People in the church are to share in the ministry responsibilities of the church. (v. 5-7)
Challenge: When you see a need in the church that you can fill, give yourself to meeting that need. Each person serving in the church is critical to the health and well-being of the church. God, please help us understand how important we are to the function of our church family. Fill us with the Holy Spirit, wisdom, faith, God’s grace, and power so we may serve you effectively whenever and wherever you call us. Amen.
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