Acts 6:1-7 The first deacons

Acts 6:1-6 Seven deacons are selected to serve tables. The first thing we notice is grumbling. In Acts 4:32 they were all of one heart and soul. In Acts 6:1 the culturally Greek Jews complained because they thought the Jewish widows were getting more food service than the Hellenistic widows. The first chink in the unity of the church. However, the twelve apostles treated this complaint seriously and told the congregation to select seven men to put in charge of the food service, so that they could focus on teaching. This is perhaps the first indication that not every person has every gift, or is called to do every work. The apostles were gifted to teach and pastor and exhibited gifts of healing, but they recognized that others were gifted to organize and lead practical ministries (gifts of administration and helps).

          There is no record of how the congregation chose the seven men. Perhaps they had a nominating committee and an election. Perhaps they prayed and the Holy Spirit made it plain to them through consensus. The emphasis of the record is that the chosen men were full of faith and the Holy Spirit. This is further evidenced by what follows. Although these men are chosen to serve tables, this is perhaps merely a test of their humility, as the Holy Spirit has also gifted at least Stephen and Phillip with other more spiritual gifts. Are we willing to serve in menial jobs?

Acts 6:7 The word continues to spread in Jerusalem. Perhaps there is a hint here that the church stopped growing when the grumbling started. At least grumbling in the church was not a capital offense as it was in Exodus 16, or as serious as lying to the Holy Spirit in Acts 5. And the outcome of the apostles dealing with the situation in a godly manner was for the church to continue growing.

          Many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith. Although the high priest, the senior leadership, and of course the Sadducees would never be willing to receive the gospel and follow Christ, on theological and political grounds, it appears that many priests were touched by the Holy Spirit and responded to the truth of the gospel. This no doubt created tension within the ranks of the priesthood. But it is another test of character. Were they willing to risk conflict with the high priest, and possibly their career, for the sake of the truth when it became evident to them? Are we?