3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven menfromamongyouwho are known to be full of the Spirit and wis-dom. We will turn this responsibility over to them4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministryof the word." - P24
5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They choseStephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; alsoPhilip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nico-las from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. - P25
The Hellenistic Jews complain that their widows are being neglected in thedaily distribution of food. The Twelve discuss what to do. - P25
They select godlymen to take care of this matter so that they can give full attention to prayerand the ministry of the Word. The apostles pray for these men and lay theirhands on them. The number of believers continues to grow. - P25
Areport arises within the church that the widows of the HellenisticJews are being neglected in the distribution of food. At first glance, itmay seem like the apostles are delegating this responsibility to otherssimply because they consider their job of preaching and teaching moreimportant, but a closer look reveals that they do not treat this problemat all lightly. - P26
They have very high standards for whoever will be giventhe job: only men who are filled with the Spirit and wisdom are deemedsuitable to handle the situation. - P26
Our all-knowing God has formed thebody of Christ from many different parts who have different gifts fordifferent roles. - P26
He equips us with all we need to handle the challengesand trials that we will face as the church. - P26
The church is pleased with the apostles‘ decision. Seven trustworthymen, including Stephen, are chosen to be commissioned by thetles and dedicated through prayer. - P26
The result is that the ministry of theWord continues through the apostles and the needs of the congregationare met through these new leaders. - P26
What is notable from these versesis the sense of oneness within the church under the banner of the HolySpirit. - P26
The apostles decide a course of action with godly wisdom and thecongregation implements the plan in full agreement and cooperation.
- P26
It isn‘t only the apostles who are running the ministry-it is the wholebody that is actively working through the guidance of the Spirit. - P26
Father, thank you for the church, the body of Christ. We remember that thechurch was bought by the precious blood of Your Son. - P26
Help us to honor Him byloving and serving His body. In His name, amen. - P26
|