Acts·Chapter 6

How to Apply

This week, look around you and think about how you can support those in your community. Maybe it’s volunteering for a project or simply offering help to someone in need. Also, consider who you might choose to lead a group or initiative. Reflect on their character and wisdom—are they people you trust? Take a small step by reaching out to someone you admire for their qualities and see how you can work together. You can even ask someone to join you in your efforts to make a difference!

Chapter Context

This moment is pivotal in a larger story where the early community of believers is growing rapidly. They’re facing challenges, especially with some members feeling overlooked. So, they decide to gather together to address these concerns. This verse serves as a turning point where the community recognizes the need for organized help, ensuring everyone feels valued. It’s like a team realizing they need more players to support each other, and that’s exactly what happens next! They successfully appoint these seven leaders, which helps the community thrive even more.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• therefore - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• brothers - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• pick - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• out - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• among - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• you - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• seven - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• men - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• good - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• repute - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

Who do you admire in your life for their wisdom and character, and how can you learn from them or support them in a leadership role?

Related Verses

• Proverbs 11:14 - This verse talks about how having wise guidance can keep a community strong, just like the leaders chosen here.
• 1 Timothy 3:1-7 - This passage outlines qualities of a good leader, echoing the importance of character and wisdom mentioned in Acts.
• Exodus 18:21 - This is about Moses selecting capable leaders to help him, showing that this idea of wise leadership has been around for a long time!
• Titus 1:5 - Paul encourages appointing leaders in the churches, reinforcing the need for trustworthy people to guide communities.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Acts 6:3. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Delegation of Authority, Community Care, Persecution of Believers, Empowerment of the Spirit, Wisdom in Leadership, Growth of the Church, Faithful Witness

Key Verses

Acts 6:1, Acts 6:3, Acts 6:7, Acts 6:10, Acts 6:15

Historical Context

Acts 6 falls within the larger narrative of the early church's formation and growth, following the ascension of Jesus and the day of Pentecost. The tensions between Hellenist and Hebrew Christians signify cultural and ethnic diversity within the church, which needed to be navigated carefully. The apostles’ decision to appoint deacons reflects an early model of church governance that addresses practical needs while allowing spiritual leaders to focus on their primary mission. This chapter also sets a precedent for the role of deacons in church life, emphasizing the importance of service and the anointing of individuals for specific tasks.