A Shift in the Narrative
Acts 6:1–4 (NASB95)
1 Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. 2 So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. 3 “Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. 4 “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
Acts 6:1-4 marks a significant transition in the early church's life, highlighting the importance of both practical service and the ministry of the word. This chapter represents a shift from the apostles' direct involvement in all aspects of ministry to a more structured approach involving delegated responsibilities. This transition was necessitated by the church's growth and the emergence of internal cultural tensions. But, this chapter also begins to pave the way for the ministry to the Gentiles that we will see unfold through the rest of the book.
As the number of disciples increased, the Hellenistic Jews complained against the Hebraic Jews regarding the distribution of food to widows. The Hellenistic widows, likely immigrants now living in Jerusalem, often lacked the same familial support networks as the Hebraic widows and were thus more dependent on the church's assistance.
The Twelve responded with wisdom and humility, recognizing the potential for this issue to divide the church. They acknowledged that it would not be right for them to neglect the ministry of the word of God to wait on tables. This decision does not diminish the importance of caring for the physical needs of the community. Instead, it strategically prioritizes the apostles' unique calling to preach the Gospel and pray. This also echoes Jesus' ministry model of equipping and empowering others to share in the work. It is important to note the contrast between the apostles' response and the religious leaders encountered earlier. While the religious leaders resisted the apostles' message and sought to silence them, the apostles here demonstrate a willingness to listen to concerns and address them constructively.
The apostles then instructed the disciples to choose seven men who were known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom to oversee food distribution. The selection of seven men, a number with symbolic significance in Jewish and Hellenistic cultures, may have been influenced by existing Jewish models of community leadership. The emphasis on the men being "full of the Spirit and wisdom" underscores the importance of spiritual qualifications for leadership, even in practical matters.
The early church's response to the complaint about food distribution offers valuable lessons for the church today. We too must strive to balance the demands of practical service with the priority of proclaiming the Gospel. Like the apostles, we should be willing to delegate responsibilities and empower others to serve. As I have stated in previous commentaries, all who belong to the Church are called into service, ministry, and mission. That call is not limited to pastors, seminary students, missionaries, etc. no more than was it limited to only the apostles.
We must also be sensitive to cultural differences and potential sources of division within the church, seeking to address them with wisdom and humility. By following the apostles' example of prioritizing God's word while addressing practical needs, we can build strong and unified communities that effectively advance God's Kingdom on earth.
In what ways are you serving and helping to build the congregation in Jenks and the community around the Church?
Blessings,
Ryan Goodnight