Acts 6:2
Verse
Context
The Choosing of the Seven
1In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.2So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables.3Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them
Sermons
Keith Daniel
George VerwerGeorge Verwer
Anton Bosch
Watchman Nee
David Wilkerson
St. John ChrysostomSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
It is not reason - Ουκ αρεστον εστι, it is not pleasing, proper, or fitting, that we should leave the word of God, that we should give up ourselves, or confide to others, the doctrine of salvation which God has commanded us to preach unto the people. And serve tables - Become providers of daily bread for your widows and poor: others can do this, to whom our important office is not intrusted.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the multitude--the general body of the disciples. It is not reason--The word expresses dislike; that is "We cannot submit." to leave the word of God--to have our time and attention withdrawn from preaching; which, it thus appears, they regarded as their primary duty. to serve tables--oversee the distribution of provisions.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then the twelve,.... The twelve apostles, as the Syriac version reads; for their number was now complete, Matthias being chosen in the room of Judas: these being informed of the murmur there was between the two sorts of believers, the Hebrew and thc Hellenistic Jews, called the multitude of the disciples unto them; either the hundred and twenty, the original members of the church, which first formed it, and on whom the Holy Ghost descended on the day of Pentecost; or rather the whole body of the church: for what the apostles had to say concerned them all; and they all had an equal right to chose their officers, that should minister unto them; and when they were convened together, they addressed them after this manner: and said, it is not reason; or "it is not pleasing", neither to God, nor to us; so the Arabic version reads, "this does not please us"; nor could it be pleasing to the church itself: that we should leave the word of God the study of the word, meditation upon it, and preaching it: not that they did relinquish either of these; but they were sometimes obliged to omit them, or not so frequently attend them; the care of the poor taking up more of their time, than the work of the ministry, or preaching of the Gospel would admit of; and therefore thought it not so right and proper, or so acceptable a thing to God and man, that they should in the least neglect a work of so great importance to the souls of men, and cause it to give way to that which only regarded their bodies: and serve tables; the tables of the poor, collect for them, inspect into their several cases, and circumstances, and distribute accordingly to them; which required a good deal of time, care, thought, and circumspection, especially in such a church, where the numbers were so large. From hence we learn what is the business of deacons, who were afterwards appointed to take this part of the apostles' work off of their hands, and attend to it; which is to serve tables: the table of the Lord, by providing the bread and wine for it; receiving both from the minister, when blessed, and distributing them to the members; and collecting from them for the poor, and the defraying the charge; and observing what members are missing at the ordinance, whom they are to admonish; and if their admonitions are not regarded, to report it to the church: and they are likewise to serve the minister's table, by taking care that he has a sufficient competency for his support; and it belongs to them to stir up the members of the church to their duty in communicating to him; and what they receive of them, they are to apply to his use: and also, they are to serve the poor's table; to whom they are to distribute of the church's stock, with all impartiality, simplicity, cheerfulness, and sympathy.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:2-6 Wisely, the apostles called a meeting of all the believers to address the dispute. They recognized the seriousness of the problem, as well as their own priority of teaching the word of God. The solution was to select wise and Spirit-filled men to oversee the food distribution. The community accepted the apostles’ solution and chose good leaders from the ranks of the Greek-speaking believers (all of their names are Greek). These seven devoted themselves to this special ministry, allowing the apostles to spend their time in prayer and teaching the word. • These seven men are sometimes called the first deacons because of the similarity of their role to the office of deacon (see 1 Tim 3:8-13). Although the Greek term translated “deacon” (Greek diakonos, “servant”) is not used here, a related Greek word is translated running a food program (6:2; Greek diakonein, “to serve”).
Acts 6:2
The Choosing of the Seven
1In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.2So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables.3Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Open Your Eyes: Soul Winning!
By Keith Daniel1.5K51:29Soul WinningGEN 19:24PRO 4:23MAT 6:33ACT 6:2ROM 1:281TI 2:122TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a woman who was equipped with God's word and had a burning passion to share it with others. The speaker observes how people initially seem disinterested in the message, but are eventually drawn in by the magnetic power of the Gospel. The speaker reflects on their own limitations and lack of formal theological training, but realizes that every soul they encounter can be their congregation. They emphasize the importance of proclaiming the message of salvation and being willing to endure personal hardships for the sake of saving souls. The sermon references John 4:35 and quotes Zinzendorf, David Brainerd, and Henry Martin to emphasize the urgency and dedication required in spreading the word of God.
(The Book of Acts) Session 07
By George Verwer1.3K38:27ActsACT 6:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a personal mission statement for oneself and one's family. He praises John for challenging the audience to create their own mission statements. The speaker also discusses the character of Stephen and his powerful sermon, which is highly criticized by liberals. He highlights the lesson from Acts 6:2-4, where the twelve disciples choose seven men to serve tables so that they can focus on the ministry of the Word of God. The speaker encourages those in ministry to learn from this example and not try to do everything themselves. He also mentions the presence of sin and failure throughout the Bible, using the example of David's adultery and murder. The speaker recommends reading Brennan Manning's book, "Ragamuffin Gospel," for a powerful understanding of grace.
The Leader as Administrator and Organizer
By George Verwer1.1K1:04:41LeadershipACT 6:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of planning and organization in carrying out the work of God. He highlights the need for making copies of important documents and recommends learning how to type as a valuable skill. The speaker also discusses the significance of having the right materials, such as books and scriptures, for both Christians and non-Christians. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of being thoughtful and considerate towards others, especially in crowded living conditions. The sermon concludes with a reminder to communicate with and show appreciation to parents, as well as the importance of making announcements and having proper authority in leadership roles.
Evangelism
By Anton Bosch34850:46EvangelismACT 6:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of each individual finding their calling and gift from God. They explain that when believers fulfill their gifts, it allows others to fulfill theirs, leading to the spread of the word of God. The speaker also highlights the need for consistency and credibility in our lives as witnesses of the gospel. They stress that living a godly and upright life is crucial in attracting others to ask about our hope and opens the door for effective witnessing. Finally, the speaker reminds the audience of their mission and responsibility to preach the gospel not only in their immediate surroundings but also in their city, state, and to the ends of the earth.
The Organization of Local Churches
By Watchman Nee0Mutual ResponsibilityChurch OrganizationACT 6:2PHP 1:1Watchman Nee discusses the organization of local churches, emphasizing the distinction between the roles of ministers, elders, and deacons. He argues that modern concepts of church organization, which prioritize a minister, a building, and formal services, diverge from the early church's practices where local elders governed and believers met in homes. Nee highlights that the church is not defined by its physical structure but by the community of believers, and that true church meetings involve mutual participation rather than passive attendance. He stresses the importance of local governance by elders and the need for believers to actively engage in their spiritual growth and responsibilities. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the principles of mutuality and shared responsibility in church life.
We Will Give Ourselves to Prayer
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual PrioritiesPrayerACT 6:2David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of prioritizing prayer and the ministry of the Word, as demonstrated by the apostles in the early church. They recognized the need to delegate administrative tasks to maintain their focus on spiritual responsibilities, leading to the growth of the church. Wilkerson warns that many modern pastors fall victim to distractions and neglect their prayer life, which is essential for spiritual health and effectiveness. He encourages believers to resist interruptions and seek God's help to maintain a disciplined prayer life. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a return to the foundational practice of prayer to experience God's power and guidance.
2 Corinthians 8:16
By St. John Chrysostom0EXO 18:14PRO 11:14PRO 15:22ACT 1:15ACT 6:2ROM 12:41CO 1:101CO 12:12EPH 4:16PHP 2:2John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation within the Church, highlighting the need for mutual respect and consideration among all members, regardless of status or position. He encourages the laity to actively participate in decision-making processes, illustrating how even the Apostles involved the people in their choices. Chrysostom stresses the significance of working together as one body, sharing responsibilities, and valuing diverse perspectives for the growth and well-being of the Church. He urges humility, openness to counsel from others, and a collective effort to seek what is best for the community, ultimately aiming for a harmonious and fruitful Church life.
The High Call of Service
By George Grant0MAT 25:35ACT 6:2EPH 2:10COL 3:17JAS 2:141JN 3:18George Grant emphasizes the importance of translating faith into action, highlighting that love, mercy, and hope are demonstrated through deeds, not just words. He stresses the significance of aligning right doctrine with right action, emphasizing the need for both Word and deed in the Christian life. Grant points out that the early church structured ministries around Word and deed, with elders preserving sound doctrine and deacons translating truth into practical deeds, ensuring selfless service and community transformation.
Without Fear of Man
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 20:28LUK 4:39ACT 6:2HEB 6:101PE 4:10The preacher delves into the meaning of 'diakoneo,' emphasizing the act of serving and ministering to others in a humble and selfless manner. This word group, including 'diakonos' and 'diakonia,' highlights the importance of personal service, caring for others' needs, and distributing help or alms to those in need. The sermon explores how Jesus exemplified true service by giving Himself for others, setting a pattern of selfless love and humility. Various biblical figures and passages are examined to illustrate the concept of serving others, whether through physical sustenance or spiritual care, as a fundamental aspect of Christian ministry.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
It is not reason - Ουκ αρεστον εστι, it is not pleasing, proper, or fitting, that we should leave the word of God, that we should give up ourselves, or confide to others, the doctrine of salvation which God has commanded us to preach unto the people. And serve tables - Become providers of daily bread for your widows and poor: others can do this, to whom our important office is not intrusted.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the multitude--the general body of the disciples. It is not reason--The word expresses dislike; that is "We cannot submit." to leave the word of God--to have our time and attention withdrawn from preaching; which, it thus appears, they regarded as their primary duty. to serve tables--oversee the distribution of provisions.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then the twelve,.... The twelve apostles, as the Syriac version reads; for their number was now complete, Matthias being chosen in the room of Judas: these being informed of the murmur there was between the two sorts of believers, the Hebrew and thc Hellenistic Jews, called the multitude of the disciples unto them; either the hundred and twenty, the original members of the church, which first formed it, and on whom the Holy Ghost descended on the day of Pentecost; or rather the whole body of the church: for what the apostles had to say concerned them all; and they all had an equal right to chose their officers, that should minister unto them; and when they were convened together, they addressed them after this manner: and said, it is not reason; or "it is not pleasing", neither to God, nor to us; so the Arabic version reads, "this does not please us"; nor could it be pleasing to the church itself: that we should leave the word of God the study of the word, meditation upon it, and preaching it: not that they did relinquish either of these; but they were sometimes obliged to omit them, or not so frequently attend them; the care of the poor taking up more of their time, than the work of the ministry, or preaching of the Gospel would admit of; and therefore thought it not so right and proper, or so acceptable a thing to God and man, that they should in the least neglect a work of so great importance to the souls of men, and cause it to give way to that which only regarded their bodies: and serve tables; the tables of the poor, collect for them, inspect into their several cases, and circumstances, and distribute accordingly to them; which required a good deal of time, care, thought, and circumspection, especially in such a church, where the numbers were so large. From hence we learn what is the business of deacons, who were afterwards appointed to take this part of the apostles' work off of their hands, and attend to it; which is to serve tables: the table of the Lord, by providing the bread and wine for it; receiving both from the minister, when blessed, and distributing them to the members; and collecting from them for the poor, and the defraying the charge; and observing what members are missing at the ordinance, whom they are to admonish; and if their admonitions are not regarded, to report it to the church: and they are likewise to serve the minister's table, by taking care that he has a sufficient competency for his support; and it belongs to them to stir up the members of the church to their duty in communicating to him; and what they receive of them, they are to apply to his use: and also, they are to serve the poor's table; to whom they are to distribute of the church's stock, with all impartiality, simplicity, cheerfulness, and sympathy.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:2-6 Wisely, the apostles called a meeting of all the believers to address the dispute. They recognized the seriousness of the problem, as well as their own priority of teaching the word of God. The solution was to select wise and Spirit-filled men to oversee the food distribution. The community accepted the apostles’ solution and chose good leaders from the ranks of the Greek-speaking believers (all of their names are Greek). These seven devoted themselves to this special ministry, allowing the apostles to spend their time in prayer and teaching the word. • These seven men are sometimes called the first deacons because of the similarity of their role to the office of deacon (see 1 Tim 3:8-13). Although the Greek term translated “deacon” (Greek diakonos, “servant”) is not used here, a related Greek word is translated running a food program (6:2; Greek diakonein, “to serve”).