Acts of the Apostles - Chapter 6

Acts of the Apostles 6.1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Acts of the Apostles 6.2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Acts of the Apostles 6.3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. Acts of the Apostles 6.4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. Acts of the Apostles 6.5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: Acts of the Apostles 6.6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. Acts of the Apostles 6.7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. Acts of the Apostles 6.8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. Acts of the Apostles 6.9 Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. Acts of the Apostles 6.10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake. Acts of the Apostles 6.11 Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God. Acts of the Apostles 6.12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council, Acts of the Apostles 6.13 And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law: Acts of the Apostles 6.14 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us. Acts of the Apostles 6.15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

Acts of the Apostles : Chapter 6

The First Deacons and the Organization of the Church

In the book of Acts, chapter 6, we learn about the establishment of the first deacons. This pivotal moment in the early church raises essential questions about how the church faced internal challenges and its growth. This significant text describes the selection of seven Spirit-filled men, including Stephen, to serve tables. It highlights the importance of organization within the church, the priority given to the preaching of the Word, and the power of faithful witness.

Furthermore, Acts 6 establishes a crucial context for Stephen's martyrdom, an event that would mark the history of the church. We invite you to meditate with us on five biblical passages that resonate with the practical themes of this foundational chapter.

Exodus 18:17-18

"What you are doing is not right. You and those with you will be weary, because the task is too heavy; you cannot do it alone." Jethro's advice to Moses reflects the apostles' decision to delegate responsibilities, as shown in Acts 6:1-4. This timeless wisdom reminds us of the importance of sharing tasks in the Church's mission.

Deuteronomy 1:13

"Select wise men, understanding, and experienced from among your tribes, and I will make them your leaders." This instruction from Moses is echoed in the selection of the seven deacons in Acts 6:3. The need for competent and spiritual leaders is essential to wisely guide God's people.

1 Timothy 3:8-10

"The deacons must be worthy, men of their word, not lovers of too much wine or of dishonest gain. They must hold fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience." Although this text was written later, it reflects the criteria used to select the seven in Acts 6:3. Dignity and integrity are necessary foundations for those who serve the Church.

Isaiah 6:1-3

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” Stephen’s vision of heaven opened, described in Acts 7:55-56, echoes this majestic revelation from Isaiah. It reminds us of God's greatness and the reality of His presence among His people.

Daniel 7:13-14

"To him was given authority and glory and a kingdom; and all peoples, nations, and languages ​​worshipped him." Stephen's vision of Jesus at the right hand of God, recorded in Acts 7:56, powerfully connects to Daniel's. It underscores Christ's sovereignty and the worship due to Him as King of kings.

Meditating on these passages, we better understand the challenges and responses of the early church as it grew. May these reflections nourish our faith and our commitment to the mission of the Church today.