Acts 6:4
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We will give ourselves continually to prayer - Προσκαρτερησομεν, We will steadfastly and invariably attend, we will carefully keep our hearts to this work. The word is very emphatic. To prayer. - See this defined, Mat 6:5 (note). Even apostles could not live without prayer; they had no independent graces; what they had could not be retained without an increase; and for this increase they must make prayer and supplication, depending continually on their God. Ministry of the word - Διακονιᾳ του λογου, The deaconship of the word. The continual proclamation of the Gospel of their Lord; and, to make this effectual to the souls of the hearers, they must continue in prayer: a minister who does not pray much, studies in vain. The office of deacon, διακονος, came to the Christian from the Jewish Church. Every synagogue had at least three deacons, which were called פרנסים parnasim, from פרנס parnes, to feed, nourish, support, govern. The פרנס parnas, or deacon, was a sort of judge in the synagogue; and, in each, doctrine and wisdom were required, that they might be able to discern and give right judgment in things both sacred and civil. The חזן chazan, and שמש shamash, were also a sort of deacons. The first was the priest's deputy; and the last was, in some cases, the deputy of this deputy, or the sub-deacon. In the New Testament the apostles are called deacons, Co2 6:4; Eph 3:7; Col 1:23 : see also Co2 11:15. Christ himself, the Shepherd and Bishop of souls, is called the deacon of the circumcision, λεγω δε Χριστον Ιησουν διακονον γεγενησθαι περιτομης, Rom 15:8. As the word implies to minister or serve, it was variously applied, and pointed out all those who were employed in helping the bodies or souls of men; whether apostles, bishops, or those whom we call deacons. Some remark that there were two orders of deacons: 1. Διακονοι της τραπιζης, deacons of the Table, whose business it was to take care of the alms collected in the Church, and distribute them among the poor, widows, etc. 2. Διακονοι του λογου, deacons of the Word, whose business it was to preach, and variously instruct the people. It seems that after the persecution raised against the apostolic Church, in consequence of which they became dispersed, the deaconship of tables ceased, as did also the community of goods; and Philip, who was one of these deacons, who at first served tables, betook himself entirely to preaching of the word: see Act 8:4, etc. In the primitive Church, it is sufficiently evident that the deacons gave the bread and wine in the Eucharist to the believers in the Church, and carried it to those who were absent, Just. Mar. Apol. ii. p. 162; they also preached, and in some cases administered baptism. See Suicer on the words Διακονος, Κηρυσσω, and Βαπτισμα. But it appears they did the two last by the special authority of the bishop. In the ancient Roman Church, and in the Romish Church, the number of seven deacons, in imitation of those appointed by the apostles, was kept up; and in the council of Neocaesarea it was decreed that this number should never be exceeded, even in the largest cities: vide Concil. Neocaesar. Canon. xiv. other Churches varied this number; and the Church of Constantinople had not less than one hundred. Deacons were ordained by the bishops, by imposition of hands. None was ordained deacon till he was twenty-five years of age, and we find that it was lawful for them to have wives. See Suicer under the word Διακονος, and see the note on Mat 20:26. In the Church of England, (the purest and nearest to the apostolical model in doctrine and discipline of all national Churches), a deacon receives ordination by the imposition of the hands of a bishop, in consequence of which he can preach, assist in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and in general perform any sacred office, except consecrating the elements, and pronouncing the absolution. No person in this Church can be ordained deacon till he be twenty-three years of age, unless by dispensation from the Abp. of Canterbury. There were deaconesses, both in the apostolic and primitive Church, who had principally the care of the women, and visited and ministered to them in those circumstances in which it would have been improper for a deacon to attend. They also assisted in preparing the female candidates for baptism. At present, the office for which the seven deacons were appointed is, in the Church of England, filled by the churchwardens and overseers of the poor; in other Churches and religious societies, by elders, stewards, etc., chosen by the people, and appointed by the minister.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we will give ourselves to prayer--public prayer, as along with preaching their great work.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer,.... Both in private for themselves, and the church; and in the houses and families of the saints, with the sick and distressed;. and in public, in the temple, or in whatsoever place they met for public worship: and to the ministry of the word; the preaching of the Gospel, to which prayer is absolutely prerequisite, and with which it is always to be joined. These two, prayer and preaching, are the principal employment of a Gospel minister, and are what he ought to be concerned in, not only now and then, but what he should give himself up unto wholly, that his profiting might appear; and what he should be continually exercised and employed in: and if parting with that branch of the ministerial function, the care of the secular affairs of the church, and of the poor of it, was necessary in the apostles, that they might be more at leisure to attend to the more important and useful duties of prayer and preaching; it therefore seems necessary that those who are called to labour in the word and doctrine, if possible, should be exempt from all worldly business and employment; that of the ministry being sufficient to engross all a man's time and thoughts.
Acts 6:4
The Choosing of the Seven
3Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them4and will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Morning Watch - Part 1
By Oswald J. Smith8.5K37:09Morning DevotionsPSA 5:3PSA 119:105MAT 6:33JHN 1:1ACT 6:41TH 5:17JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of the morning watch, which is a dedicated time of studying the Word of God and engaging in prayer. The speaker emphasizes that failure and weakness in the Christian life can be attributed to neglecting the morning watch. They share personal experiences of how God led them to prioritize studying the Bible and committing to prayer. The speaker encourages listeners to observe the morning watch in order to avoid losing the joy of salvation, slipping back into sinful habits, and experiencing disappointment in their Christian walk.
Interview of Leonard Ravenhill by David Mainse
By Leonard Ravenhill6.0K12:07RevivalInterviewPrayer in MinistryMAT 21:13LUK 18:1ACT 6:4ROM 12:12EPH 6:18PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:171TI 2:1JAS 5:16Leonard Ravenhill, in an interview with David Mainse, emphasizes the critical need for prayer in ministry, arguing that a lack of prayer life among preachers leads to a spiritually stagnant church. He reflects on the early church's commitment to prayer and contrasts it with the modern church's focus on organization and performance. Ravenhill calls for a revival of genuine prayer and intercession, suggesting that the church must return to its roots of seeking God earnestly. He also highlights the importance of preachers dedicating time to prepare spiritually, not just intellectually, for their messages. Ultimately, Ravenhill urges ministers to prioritize their prayer life to foster a vibrant and impactful church.
(Titus - Part 6): Set in Order the Things That Are Wanting
By A.W. Tozer3.9K39:05TitusMAT 6:33ACT 6:4EPH 4:141TI 3:1TIT 1:5HEB 6:11PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of organization and structure in the church. He uses the example of a man with a physical disability to illustrate the need for order and organization in the body of Christ. The speaker also emphasizes the role of certain individuals who are called by God to dedicate their time to spiritual activities. He mentions the example of John of the Nedward, who spent 13 hours a day in prayer, Bible study, and writing. The speaker also highlights the importance of recognizing spiritual authority in the church, but cautions against giving any individual dictatorial power. He references the apostle Peter's words about being examples and shepherds to the flock. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the letter to Titus and the importance of setting things in order and appointing elders in every city.
A House of Prayer
By Bill McLeod3.9K48:03PrayerGEN 32:26PSA 119:164MAT 26:40ACT 6:4ROM 12:211PE 3:9In this sermon, the preacher shares various anecdotes and experiences to emphasize the importance of committing our causes to God. He tells a story about a preacher from Argentina who came to Canada seeking revival but later blamed Democrats for his disappointment. The preacher then decides to teach a series on soul winning, but only two people show up for visitation, revealing their lack of genuine desire. This leads the preacher to conclude that what they truly need is a revival from God. He also highlights the story of Jacob wrestling with God and emphasizes the need to trust and seek God's blessings rather than seeking revenge or getting bitter. The sermon concludes with a mention of John the Baptist's prayerful life in the desert before God revealed his ministry to him.
A Life of Effectual Intercessory Prayer
By Gerhard Du Toit3.5K1:26:16Intercessory PrayerPSA 119:130JER 4:31MAT 6:33ACT 6:41TH 5:17JAS 5:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of discerning the difference between the voice of God and the voice of Satan. He shares a story about a man who would pray for the souls of men and women in a town, kneeling at a specific spot and looking over the town. The preacher emphasizes the need for prayer and seeking God's guidance in order to fulfill His purpose in our lives. He also mentions the significance of having a clean heart before God and encourages the congregation to examine their own relationship with God.
Faith Series - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill3.1K1:12:47FaithISA 51:2MAT 6:33ACT 6:4ROM 8:312TI 3:16HEB 11:6JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to God. He reminds the audience that life is short and that only what is done for God will last. The preacher shares a personal experience of receiving a brochure about self-faken and being inspired by the life of David Brainwood. He also discusses the challenges of being a preacher and the responsibility they have in their role. The sermon concludes with a reminder that there will be a judgment for believers and preachers, and that it is important to live a life that brings glory to God.
The Ministry of Prayer
By F.J. Huegel3.1K1:02:07GEN 32:262CH 7:14JER 33:3MAT 6:33ACT 4:31ACT 6:41TH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and the ministry of the Word. He highlights the power of prayer by referencing the early apostles who, after praying, were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. The speaker also mentions the Protestant movement and how it turned towards faith and world missions through the influence of prayer. He shares the example of a prayer circle formed by the Moravians in Germany, who prayed continuously for ten years, leading to a great missionary age. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about a missionary convention and the impact of prayer in missionary work.
How Quickly We Turn Aside
By David Wilkerson2.9K58:32Christian LifeDEU 17:141KI 3:51KI 9:21KI 11:9PSA 106:13ACT 6:41CO 10:6In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of idolatry and how it can lead people away from God. He emphasizes that idols can take many forms, such as sports, entertainment, and lustful movies, and that people often become obsessed with these idols without even realizing it. The preacher warns that allowing idols to capture our hearts can lead to a loss of the fear of God and a turning away from His commandments. He urges the congregation to turn to God and seek His forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of prayer and the ministry of the word in staying faithful to God.
Revival Praying
By Leonard Ravenhill2.8K1:24:24Revival PrayingPSA 86:1PSA 119:11MAT 26:40ACT 6:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of revival in the church. He suggests that revival is not simply a charismatic preacher coming to deliver a sermon, but rather a divine invasion that changes the moral climate of a community. The speaker also highlights the significance of prayer in experiencing revival, using biblical examples such as David and Elijah. He challenges the audience to humble themselves before God and prioritize prayer in their lives.
Five Steps to Genuine Revival
By Ian Paisley2.8K27:31HAG 1:5HAG 1:7MAT 6:33MAT 11:12MRK 11:24LUK 14:23ACT 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and learning how to pray effectively. He urges believers to pray with fervor and passion, using prayer as a weapon against the enemy and to set free those who are captive. The preacher also highlights the significance of the cross and the sacrifice of Jesus, urging listeners to hate sin and the world because of its role in putting Jesus on the cross. He then references the Book of Haggai, specifically verses 7 and 8, calling believers to consider their ways and prioritize their Christian life. The sermon concludes with a reminder that divine power is necessary to accomplish God's work and that believers should rely on God's power rather than their own abilities.
A Call to Prayer
By Michael L. Brown2.4K52:24PrayerPSA 109:1ACT 6:4ACT 12:12ACT 13:3ACT 14:23ACT 16:13ACT 16:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in experiencing God's blessings and seeing Him move in our lives. He shares stories of persecuted workers who rely on prayer and witness miraculous healings. The speaker encourages the congregation to prioritize prayer and deepen their individual and congregational prayer lives. He acknowledges that time constraints may make it challenging to spend long hours in prayer, but emphasizes that the same attitude of devotion can still yield powerful results. The speaker references Acts 6:4, which highlights the importance of prayer and the ministry of the word.
Ian Paisley - Five Steps to Genuine Revival
By Ian Paisley2.2K04:45ACT 6:4This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to move beyond mere activity in the church and focus on making a real impact for God. It challenges believers to prioritize prayer as a vital and powerful tool for spiritual warfare and transformation. The speaker calls for a return to the fervent faith and dedication of early church leaders and urges Christians to preach the Word boldly and live lives that reflect the power of God's resurrection. The message highlights the importance of forsaking worldly distractions and seeking a deeper, more intimate relationship with God through the Holy Spirit.
The Secrets of the Early Church's Success - Part 1
By G.W. North2.1K45:30Early ChurchMAT 6:33ACT 1:14ACT 2:4ACT 4:23ACT 6:4ACT 12:5ACT 16:25In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Acts chapter 4 and emphasizes the importance of believers gathering together in their own company. He encourages listeners to find a community of people who share the same truth and beliefs. The speaker also highlights the need for basic foundational principles in the church, rather than being flippant or focused on trivial matters. He references Acts 1:8, where Jesus promises the power of the Holy Spirit to empower believers to be witnesses for Him. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living out the Gospel and being filled with the Spirit, rather than constantly seeking new anointings or experiences.
Leaders of the Church
By Bob Hoekstra1.8K55:25ACT 6:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of church leadership being aligned with biblical principles, focusing on the need for leaders to be servants, prioritize prayer and the ministry of the word, seek to be Christ-like examples, and operate within the framework of the body of Christ, led by Jesus as the head.
Revival
By Alan Cairns1.8K45:41RevivalJDG 6:7ACT 6:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering oneself completely to God. He encourages listeners to offer their entire being and possessions to serve the Lord, assuring them that God can do extraordinary things through them. The preacher also laments the lack of purpose and direction among many young Christians, urging them to seek God's plan for their lives. The sermon references the story of Gideon in the Bible as an example of God using an ordinary person for His extraordinary purposes.
Take Heed to Yourselves
By Bill McLeod1.5K54:58Sober MindedMAT 6:33ACT 6:4ROM 15:4COL 4:171TH 5:211TI 4:162TI 4:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of personal preparation before delivering a message. He shares that he spends two hours preparing for a sermon, with the majority of that time dedicated to prayer and preparing his heart. The preacher believes that the effectiveness of a message is determined by the person delivering it, as it is an extension of their character. He warns against becoming like Demos, who abandoned his ministry due to his love for the world. The preacher encourages listeners to take heed of the ministry they have received and fulfill it faithfully.
Prayer for America
By Glenn Sheppard1.5K34:312CH 7:14MAT 6:9JHN 17:21ACT 6:4JAS 5:16This sermon by Glenn Shepard emphasizes the importance of revival and spiritual awakening, highlighting the need for deep prayer, obedience to the Holy Spirit, and a return to biblical Christianity. Glenn shares insights on the power of prayer, the impact of revival on individuals and communities, and the necessity of being doers of the Word. He calls for a genuine move of God that draws people to the heart of God, leading to transformation and awakening.
Prayer 09 in the Early Church
By Bob Clark1.4K37:53Early ChurchACT 1:14ACT 2:5ACT 6:4ACT 12:5ACT 16:25ACT 20:36COL 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in the Christian home. He refers to the exhortations given in Colossians 3 and 4, which outline how husbands, wives, children, fathers, servants, and masters should behave. The speaker highlights the need for continual prayer and thanksgiving in order for the Christian home to function properly. He also mentions that prayer is not just for personal benefit or spiritual growth, but it should be integrated into daily family life. Additionally, the speaker discusses how prayer can have a transformative effect on individuals and situations, as seen in the example of the apostle Paul's imprisonment leading to the furtherance of the gospel.
Acid Test Series 1 of 8 - the Priority of Prayer
By Al Whittinghill1.3K1:02:27Christian LifeEXO 25:9MAT 26:41LUK 11:1ACT 6:4ROM 8:26PHP 4:6JAS 1:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in the life of a believer. He uses a story of a little boy who boldly approaches a king covered in mud to illustrate how we can come boldly to the throne of grace through prayer. The speaker also highlights the connection between prayer and spiritual vitality, stating that neglecting prayer is the chief cause of backsliding. He encourages believers to watch and pray so that they do not fall into temptation, as the flesh is weak but the spirit is willing. The sermon emphasizes the need for habitual prayer and dialogue with God to stay spiritually strong and discerning.
Entering Into Rest
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K15:41RestLUK 24:26JHN 3:16JHN 5:17JHN 10:27ACT 2:4ACT 6:4EPH 5:14In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of how he found peace and guidance in his busy life by quieting his mind and listening to the voice of Jesus. He explains that from that moment on, he no longer had to preach sermons himself, as God took over and provided for all his needs. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life of faith and having fellowship with God and Jesus Christ. He also mentions the story of Dr. Simpson, who found a deep connection with Jesus and experienced great transformation in his life. The speaker encourages listeners to surrender control to God and witness the amazing things He can accomplish through them.
Give Yourself to Prayer, and God Will Give Himself to You
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.0K20:55PrayerJER 2:13JHN 14:13JHN 15:5ACT 1:14ACT 6:4ACT 13:2ROM 9:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living according to the teachings of Jesus Christ. He highlights that God had a plan for humanity and that plan can only be carried out if individuals follow John 14. The speaker also emphasizes the power of Jesus' resurrection and the opportunity for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit and the fullness of God. He discusses the call to be sons of God and to shine as lights in the world. The speaker also shares personal experiences of how God led them step by step in their ministry and the blessings that came from obeying God's guidance.
Prayer - Founded on the Law and the Gospel
By Bill McLeod98244:35PrayerMAT 6:33ACT 6:4ROM 3:10ROM 3:231TH 5:171TI 1:81TI 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer in the church. He shares a story of a pastor who was struggling to see any results in his ministry until he called on a group of praying men to intercede. After their prayers, the church saw a significant increase in attendance and salvations. The preacher urges Christians to learn from this example and embrace a Book of Acts type of Christianity, where prayer is central. He also shares another story of a couple who prayed daily and believed for the salvation of their relatives, eventually seeing their prayers answered and their church growing. The sermon highlights the power of believing prayer and encourages believers to prioritize prayer in their lives.
Preaching in the 19th Century
By Ian Murray75359:44Revival in the ChurchThe Power of PreachingPSA 119:105MAT 28:19ACT 6:4ROM 10:141CO 1:211TH 2:132TI 3:162TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 1:22Ian Murray reflects on the profound impact of 19th-century preaching, emphasizing the dedication and long pastorates of influential preachers like Spurgeon and Palmer. He highlights the remarkable conversions and community transformations that resulted from their sermons, contrasting the evangelistic fervor of the first half of the century with the more contemporary, less impactful preaching of the latter half. Murray notes that while the earlier preachers focused on the heart and conscience, later preachers became more concerned with social issues and intellectualism, leading to a decline in spiritual fervor. He calls for a return to the principles of the first half of the century, urging a reliance on the Holy Spirit and a commitment to the ministry of the Word and prayer. The sermon concludes with a hopeful reminder of God's promises and the need for revival in preaching.
Prayer
By Hugh Morrison63044:251SA 12:23MRK 1:35LUK 5:16LUK 6:12ACT 6:4PHP 4:6COL 4:21TH 5:17JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of giving attention to prayer in ministry, highlighting the example of the early church in Acts chapter 6. It challenges listeners to adjust their thinking, priorities, and whole life to prioritize prayer, as it is commanded by God, leads to communion with Him, and results in the greatest good being done. The sermon calls for repentance, determination, and a set focus on prayer as God's way for effective ministry.
Homiletics: The Preacher's Prayer Life - Part 4
By Tim Conway50227:26LUK 5:16ACT 6:42CO 2:16PHP 4:6JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the vital importance of prayer in the life of a preacher, highlighting the need for deep communion with God, dependence on Him, and the cultivation of a strong prayer life to handle the Word of God effectively. It stresses the significance of living a holy and distinct life, walking closely with the Lord, and seeking His guidance through prayer in all aspects of ministry.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We will give ourselves continually to prayer - Προσκαρτερησομεν, We will steadfastly and invariably attend, we will carefully keep our hearts to this work. The word is very emphatic. To prayer. - See this defined, Mat 6:5 (note). Even apostles could not live without prayer; they had no independent graces; what they had could not be retained without an increase; and for this increase they must make prayer and supplication, depending continually on their God. Ministry of the word - Διακονιᾳ του λογου, The deaconship of the word. The continual proclamation of the Gospel of their Lord; and, to make this effectual to the souls of the hearers, they must continue in prayer: a minister who does not pray much, studies in vain. The office of deacon, διακονος, came to the Christian from the Jewish Church. Every synagogue had at least three deacons, which were called פרנסים parnasim, from פרנס parnes, to feed, nourish, support, govern. The פרנס parnas, or deacon, was a sort of judge in the synagogue; and, in each, doctrine and wisdom were required, that they might be able to discern and give right judgment in things both sacred and civil. The חזן chazan, and שמש shamash, were also a sort of deacons. The first was the priest's deputy; and the last was, in some cases, the deputy of this deputy, or the sub-deacon. In the New Testament the apostles are called deacons, Co2 6:4; Eph 3:7; Col 1:23 : see also Co2 11:15. Christ himself, the Shepherd and Bishop of souls, is called the deacon of the circumcision, λεγω δε Χριστον Ιησουν διακονον γεγενησθαι περιτομης, Rom 15:8. As the word implies to minister or serve, it was variously applied, and pointed out all those who were employed in helping the bodies or souls of men; whether apostles, bishops, or those whom we call deacons. Some remark that there were two orders of deacons: 1. Διακονοι της τραπιζης, deacons of the Table, whose business it was to take care of the alms collected in the Church, and distribute them among the poor, widows, etc. 2. Διακονοι του λογου, deacons of the Word, whose business it was to preach, and variously instruct the people. It seems that after the persecution raised against the apostolic Church, in consequence of which they became dispersed, the deaconship of tables ceased, as did also the community of goods; and Philip, who was one of these deacons, who at first served tables, betook himself entirely to preaching of the word: see Act 8:4, etc. In the primitive Church, it is sufficiently evident that the deacons gave the bread and wine in the Eucharist to the believers in the Church, and carried it to those who were absent, Just. Mar. Apol. ii. p. 162; they also preached, and in some cases administered baptism. See Suicer on the words Διακονος, Κηρυσσω, and Βαπτισμα. But it appears they did the two last by the special authority of the bishop. In the ancient Roman Church, and in the Romish Church, the number of seven deacons, in imitation of those appointed by the apostles, was kept up; and in the council of Neocaesarea it was decreed that this number should never be exceeded, even in the largest cities: vide Concil. Neocaesar. Canon. xiv. other Churches varied this number; and the Church of Constantinople had not less than one hundred. Deacons were ordained by the bishops, by imposition of hands. None was ordained deacon till he was twenty-five years of age, and we find that it was lawful for them to have wives. See Suicer under the word Διακονος, and see the note on Mat 20:26. In the Church of England, (the purest and nearest to the apostolical model in doctrine and discipline of all national Churches), a deacon receives ordination by the imposition of the hands of a bishop, in consequence of which he can preach, assist in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and in general perform any sacred office, except consecrating the elements, and pronouncing the absolution. No person in this Church can be ordained deacon till he be twenty-three years of age, unless by dispensation from the Abp. of Canterbury. There were deaconesses, both in the apostolic and primitive Church, who had principally the care of the women, and visited and ministered to them in those circumstances in which it would have been improper for a deacon to attend. They also assisted in preparing the female candidates for baptism. At present, the office for which the seven deacons were appointed is, in the Church of England, filled by the churchwardens and overseers of the poor; in other Churches and religious societies, by elders, stewards, etc., chosen by the people, and appointed by the minister.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we will give ourselves to prayer--public prayer, as along with preaching their great work.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer,.... Both in private for themselves, and the church; and in the houses and families of the saints, with the sick and distressed;. and in public, in the temple, or in whatsoever place they met for public worship: and to the ministry of the word; the preaching of the Gospel, to which prayer is absolutely prerequisite, and with which it is always to be joined. These two, prayer and preaching, are the principal employment of a Gospel minister, and are what he ought to be concerned in, not only now and then, but what he should give himself up unto wholly, that his profiting might appear; and what he should be continually exercised and employed in: and if parting with that branch of the ministerial function, the care of the secular affairs of the church, and of the poor of it, was necessary in the apostles, that they might be more at leisure to attend to the more important and useful duties of prayer and preaching; it therefore seems necessary that those who are called to labour in the word and doctrine, if possible, should be exempt from all worldly business and employment; that of the ministry being sufficient to engross all a man's time and thoughts.