Acts 6:1

KJV

¶ And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} in {G1722} those {G5025} days {G2250}, when the number {G4129} of the disciples {G3101} was multiplied {G4129}, there arose {G1096} a murmuring {G1112} of the Grecians {G1675} against {G4314} the Hebrews {G1445}, because {G3754} their {G846} widows {G5503} were neglected {G3865} in {G1722} the daily {G2522} ministration {G1248}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Around this time, when the number of talmidim was growing, the Greek-speaking Jews began complaining against those who spoke Hebrew that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution.

Berean Standard Bible

In 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.

American Standard Version

Now in these days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring of the Grecian Jews against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 6:1 unveils a critical internal challenge faced by the rapidly expanding early Christian community in Jerusalem. As the number of disciples grew significantly, a serious complaint arose from the Greek-speaking Jewish believers ("Grecians") against the Aramaic-speaking Jewish believers ("Hebrews"). This discontent stemmed from the perception that the widows among the Grecians were being overlooked or neglected in the daily distribution of food and resources, highlighting the practical complexities of managing a burgeoning and diverse spiritual movement.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a pivotal shift in the narrative of the Book of Acts. Following the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost in [Acts 2](/acts/2 "Acts 2 - The Day of Pentecost"), the apostles' bold preaching led to an explosive growth in the number of believers. The early church was characterized by profound unity, devotion to apostolic teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, as described in [Acts 2:42-47](/acts/2-42-47 "Acts 2:42-47 - The Fellowship of the Believers"). They also practiced a radical form of communal sharing, selling possessions and distributing to all as any had need ([Acts 4:32-37](/acts/4-32-37 "Acts 4:32-37 - The Believers Share Their Possessions")). Acts 6:1 introduces the first significant internal conflict within this otherwise harmonious community, demonstrating that even Spirit-filled growth brings administrative and social challenges. This problem directly leads to the apostles' decision to delegate responsibilities, setting the stage for the appointment of the first deacons in the subsequent verses ([Acts 6:2-4](/acts/6-2-4 "Acts 6:2-4 - The Appointment of the Seven")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The distinction between "Grecians" (Hellenists) and "Hebrews" was a significant cultural and linguistic divide within first-century Judaism, which naturally extended into the early church. "Hebrews" were Aramaic-speaking Jews, typically native to Judea, who maintained traditional Jewish customs and language. "Grecians" or "Hellenistic Jews" were Greek-speaking Jews, often from the Diaspora (those who lived outside Judea), who were more assimilated into Hellenistic culture and spoke Koine Greek as their primary language. While both groups were Jewish, their differing cultural backgrounds and linguistic preferences could lead to misunderstandings or perceived biases, especially in a practical matter like daily food distribution. Widows, in that society, were particularly vulnerable, often lacking male family members for support and relying on community or charitable aid. Both Jewish tradition (Deuteronomy 14:29, Isaiah 1:17) and Jesus's teachings emphasized the importance of caring for widows, making their neglect a serious breach of societal and spiritual responsibility.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 6:1 introduces several crucial themes that resonate throughout the New Testament. Firstly, it highlights the **Challenges of Growth**, demonstrating that while numerical expansion is a blessing, it inevitably introduces administrative complexities and potential for internal friction. The church, despite being divinely empowered, was still composed of imperfect human beings navigating practical issues. Secondly, the verse underscores the importance of **Unity Amidst Diversity**. The early church was a melting pot of various Jewish backgrounds, and the conflict between Grecians and Hebrews illustrates the ongoing need to bridge cultural and linguistic divides to maintain the "unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" ([Ephesians 4:3](/ephesians/4-3 "Ephesians 4:3 - Endeavoring to Keep the Unity of the Spirit")). Thirdly, it emphasizes the church's enduring responsibility for **Care for the Vulnerable**. The neglect of widows was a serious issue, reflecting a failure in practical compassion and social justice, a principle foundational to "pure and undefiled religion" ([James 1:27](/james/1-27 "James 1:27 - Pure Religion and Undefiled")). Finally, the "murmuring" itself sets the stage for the theme of **Proactive Problem Solving and Delegation**, as the apostles wisely address the issue by establishing new roles within the church ([Acts 6:2-4](/acts/6-2-4 "Acts 6:2-4 - The Apostles' Solution and the Appointment of the Seven")), ensuring that practical needs are met without compromising their primary spiritual duties.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **multiplied (Greek, _plēthýnō'_):** From G4129, this verb means "to increase" or "to abound," used transitively or intransitively. In this context, it describes the rapid and significant growth in the number of disciples, indicating a flourishing movement but also the logistical strain that such expansion inevitably brings. The multiplication of believers is a recurring theme in Acts, signifying God's blessing and the power of the gospel.
* **murmuring (Greek, _gongysmós'_):** From G1112, this noun denotes a "grumbling" or "complaint," often expressed in low tones or privately. The term carries a negative connotation, reminiscent of the Israelites' complaints against Moses and God in the wilderness (e.g., Exodus 16:7-9 in the Septuagint). Its presence here indicates a deep-seated dissatisfaction and potential for division within the early church, requiring immediate and careful attention.
* **ministration (Greek, _diakonía'_):** From G1248, this word refers to "attendance," "service," or "ministry." Here, it specifically denotes the practical service of distributing food or aid to those in need, particularly the widows. This term is significant as it is the root from which the word "deacon" (Greek, _diakonos_, meaning "servant") is derived, foreshadowing the establishment of new roles dedicated to this very type of practical service. It highlights the early church's commitment to tangible care for its members.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied,"**: This opening clause establishes the temporal setting ("in those days," referring to the period immediately following Pentecost and the initial growth of the church) and the foundational condition for the ensuing problem. The "multiplication" of disciples signifies God's blessing and the effectiveness of the apostles' ministry, but also implies increased logistical and administrative challenges for the burgeoning community.
* **"there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews,"**: This identifies the core conflict and the parties involved. A "murmuring" (a grumbling complaint) emerged, indicating internal discontent rather than external persecution. The division was along cultural and linguistic lines: "Grecians" (Hellenistic, Greek-speaking Jews) felt aggrieved by "Hebrews" (Aramaic-speaking, more traditional Jews), suggesting a perceived favoritism or oversight in the church's operations.
* **"because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration."**: This clause specifies the precise reason for the complaint. The "daily ministration" refers to the regular distribution of food or resources to the needy, a vital aspect of the early church's communal life. The "neglect" of the Grecians' widows implies an unintentional oversight, a systemic flaw, or perhaps an unconscious bias in the distribution process, which was a serious matter given the vulnerability of widows and the church's commitment to their care.

#### Literary Devices
Luke, as a meticulous historian and skilled writer, employs several **literary devices** in Acts 6:1. The most prominent is **Contrast**, specifically between the "Grecians" and the "Hebrews." This highlights the internal diversity within the early Jewish Christian community and sets the stage for the resolution that promotes unity. There is also an element of **Understatement** or **Euphemism** in the word "neglected," which, while accurate, might subtly downplay the severity of the oversight from the perspective of the aggrieved widows. The "murmuring" itself serves as a **Motif**, echoing the complaints of the Israelites in the wilderness narratives, thereby subtly linking the early church's struggles to the broader history of God's people. Furthermore, this verse functions as a **Foreshadowing** device, signaling the administrative crisis that will necessitate the appointment of the Seven, thereby introducing a new dimension of leadership and service within the burgeoning Christian movement. The entire passage is presented as a **Historical Narrative**, characteristic of Luke's writing, providing an objective account of a real challenge and its resolution within the nascent church.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 6:1 reveals that even a Spirit-filled community, operating under divine guidance, is not immune to practical challenges and human imperfections. The "murmuring" underscores the reality that rapid growth, while a sign of God's blessing, necessitates wise and equitable administration to prevent internal division. The theological imperative to care for the vulnerable, particularly widows, is paramount, reflecting God's own character and the ethical demands of the gospel. This incident serves as a crucial reminder that genuine faith must manifest in tangible acts of justice and compassion, ensuring that no one within the community is overlooked. The church's response, detailed in subsequent verses, demonstrates the importance of addressing grievances promptly and strategically, prioritizing both spiritual ministry and practical service to maintain unity and fulfill its mission.

* [Deuteronomy 10:18](/deuteronomy/10-18 "Deuteronomy 10:18 - God's Care for the Fatherless and Widow")
* [James 1:27](/james/1-27 "James 1:27 - Pure and Undefiled Religion")
* [1 Corinthians 12:25](/1_corinthians/12-25 "1 Corinthians 12:25 - No Division in the Body")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 6:1 provides invaluable lessons for the church today, regardless of its size or context. It reminds us that growth, while a blessing, often brings with it the need for intentional organization and sensitive leadership. Are we, as a community, attentive to the needs and potential grievances of all our members, especially those who might be marginalized or less vocal? The "murmuring" of the Grecians serves as a powerful reminder that unspoken discontent, if left unaddressed, can fester and lead to significant division. True spiritual health requires not only fervent worship and sound teaching but also compassionate and equitable practical service. Leaders must be willing to listen, identify systemic issues, and delegate responsibilities wisely, empowering others to serve where needs arise. This ensures that the church remains a place where all are valued, cared for, and able to participate fully in the life and mission of the body of Christ, reflecting God's heart for justice and mercy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does our church actively identify and address the practical needs of its most vulnerable members, ensuring no one is "neglected"?**
* **Are there any "murmurings" or unspoken discontents within our community that need to be heard and addressed by leadership?**
* **In what ways can we foster greater unity and understanding amidst the diverse backgrounds and perspectives within our congregation?**
* **How do we balance the spiritual priorities of prayer and the ministry of the Word with the essential practical demands of service and administration?**

### FAQ
**Who were the "Grecians" and "Hebrews" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "Grecians" (Greek, _Hellēnistai_) were Greek-speaking Jews, typically from the Diaspora (Jewish communities outside Judea) who had settled in Jerusalem or were visiting. They often had a more Hellenized (Greek) cultural outlook, even while adhering to Judaism. The "Hebrews" (Greek, _Hebraioi_) were Aramaic-speaking Jews, usually native to Judea, who maintained more traditional Jewish customs and spoke Aramaic (a language closely related to Hebrew) as their primary tongue. This distinction was primarily linguistic and cultural, not ethnic, as both groups were ethnically Jewish. The early church, being predominantly Jewish at this stage, naturally inherited these pre-existing cultural fault lines, as seen in the diverse origins of the Jews present at Pentecost in [Acts 2:5-11](/acts/2-5-11 "Acts 2:5-11 - Jews from Every Nation Present at Pentecost").

**Why were "widows" specifically mentioned as being neglected?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern societies, including Jewish culture, widows were a particularly vulnerable demographic. Without a husband, they often lacked a male provider or protector and could easily fall into poverty or exploitation. Both Old Testament law and Jewish tradition placed a strong emphasis on caring for widows, along with orphans and foreigners, as a mark of righteousness and piety (e.g., [Deuteronomy 14:29](/deuteronomy/14-29 "Deuteronomy 14:29 - Care for Levites, Strangers, Orphans, and Widows")). The early Christian church, following Jesus's teachings, continued this commitment to social welfare. Therefore, the neglect of widows was not merely a logistical oversight but a serious failure in compassion and adherence to a core tenet of their faith. Later, the Apostle Paul would also give instructions regarding the care of widows in [1 Timothy 5:3-16](/1_timothy/5-3-16 "1 Timothy 5:3-16 - Instructions Concerning Widows").

**What was the "daily ministration"?**

Answer: The "daily ministration" (Greek, _diakonía_) refers to the regular, systematic distribution of food, money, or other necessities to the needy members of the early Christian community, particularly the poor and vulnerable like widows. This practice was an outgrowth of the early church's communal sharing and radical generosity, where believers sold possessions and distributed the proceeds "as any had need" ([Acts 4:35](/acts/4-35 "Acts 4:35 - Distribution According to Need")). It was a practical expression of their love and solidarity, ensuring that no one among them suffered want. The term _diakonía_ itself is significant, as it is the root of the word "deacon," highlighting that this practical service was a foundational aspect of ministry in the nascent church.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 6:1, while detailing an internal church conflict, ultimately points to the very heart of Christ's mission and character. The "daily ministration" to widows mirrors Jesus's own profound compassion for the marginalized and vulnerable, consistently demonstrating His care for the poor, the sick, and those overlooked by society. His parables, such as the sheep and the goats, explicitly state that true service to Him is manifest in tangible acts of kindness to "the least of these" ([Matthew 25:35-40](/matthew/25-35-40 "Matthew 25:35-40 - The King's Judgment and Care for the Least of These")). Furthermore, the "murmuring" between Grecians and Hebrews highlights the human tendency towards division, a stark contrast to Christ's fervent prayer for unity among His followers ([John 17:20-23](/john/17-20-23 "John 17:20-23 - Jesus' Prayer for Unity")). The solution to this conflict, the appointment of the Seven, exemplifies the Christ-like principle of humble service, as Jesus Himself declared that He "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Thus, this passage underscores that the church, as the body of Christ, is called to embody His self-giving love, His unifying spirit, and His unwavering commitment to justice and care for all, especially those in greatest need, thereby reflecting the very nature of God's kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 4:35

And laid [them] down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

Acts 2:41

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added [unto them] about three thousand souls.

Acts 2:47

Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

James 5:9

Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Acts 6:7

And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Acts 9:39

Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

Philippians 3:5

Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, [of] the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;