Acts 6:2

KJV

Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples [unto them], and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} the twelve {G1427} called {G4341} the multitude {G4128} of the disciples {G3101} unto them, and said {G2036}, It is {G2076} not {G3756} reason {G701} that we {G2248} should leave {G2641} the word {G3056} of God {G2316}, and serve {G1247} tables {G5132}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So the Twelve called a general meeting of the talmidim and said, “It isn’t appropriate that we should neglect the Word of God in order to serve tables.

Berean Standard Bible

So 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.

American Standard Version

And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 6:2 captures a pivotal moment in the early Jerusalem church where the twelve apostles, faced with a growing administrative burden related to the daily distribution of food, convened the multitude of disciples. They articulated a profound principle of ministry prioritization, declaring it was not fitting for them to neglect their primary calling of proclaiming and teaching the "word of God" in order to manage practical, though necessary, logistical tasks like "serving tables." This statement set the stage for the delegation of responsibilities and the establishment of a new order of service within the burgeoning Christian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the account of a specific internal conflict within the rapidly expanding early church in Jerusalem, as detailed in [Acts 6:1](/acts/6-1 "Acts 6:1 - The Complaint of the Hellenists"). A complaint arose from the Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jewish Christians that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food, in contrast to the Hebraic (Aramaic-speaking) Jewish widows. Acts 6:2 presents the apostles' direct response to this burgeoning crisis, initiating a solution that would lead to the selection and appointment of seven men to oversee these practical matters, as described in [Acts 6:3-6](/acts/6-3-6 "Acts 6:3-6 - The Selection of the Seven"). This decision is crucial for understanding the subsequent growth and unhindered spread of the Gospel, highlighted in [Acts 6:7](/acts/6-7 "Acts 6:7 - The Word of God Increased").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church in Jerusalem was experiencing explosive growth following Pentecost, with thousands converting (e.g., [Acts 2:41](/acts/2-41 "Acts 2:41 - Three Thousand Added") and [Acts 4:4](/acts/4-4 "Acts 4:4 - Five Thousand Men Believe")). This rapid expansion, coupled with a communal sharing of resources ([Acts 2:44-45](/acts/2-44-45 "Acts 2:44-45 - Community of Believers")), inevitably led to logistical challenges. The cultural distinction between Hellenistic Jews (Greek-speaking Jews from the Diaspora who had returned to Jerusalem) and Hebraic Jews (Aramaic-speaking Jews native to Judea) was significant. While both were Jewish, differences in language, customs, and perhaps social standing could lead to unintentional (or even intentional) neglect. The daily distribution of food to widows was a vital act of charity and social welfare in ancient Jewish society, stemming from Old Testament mandates to care for the vulnerable (e.g., [Deuteronomy 14:29](/deuteronomy/14-29 "Deuteronomy 14:29 - Care for the Levite, Sojourner, Fatherless, and Widow")).
* **Key Themes:** Acts 6:2 contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Acts and broader New Testament theology. Firstly, it underscores the **prioritization of ministry**, emphasizing that the apostles' primary calling was the "word of God" – the proclamation, teaching, and prayer that fueled the spiritual growth of the church. This highlights the foundational importance of sound doctrine and spiritual nourishment. Secondly, it introduces the theme of **wise delegation and division of labor** within the church body, recognizing that no single group or individual can fulfill all necessary functions. This leads to the empowerment of others to serve according to their gifts, ensuring that all needs are met and potential conflicts are resolved. Finally, the verse implicitly addresses the theme of **unity and conflict resolution**, demonstrating how leadership can proactively address internal strife to maintain the health and mission of the community, allowing the Gospel to continue its unhindered advance, a recurring motif throughout [the book of Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts - The Acts of the Apostles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Reason (Greek, _arestós'_):** This word signifies what is "agreeable" or "fit." In this context, the apostles are stating that it is "not fitting" or "not agreeable" for them to divert their focus from their divinely appointed task. It implies a sense of propriety and alignment with their specific calling, rather than a judgment on the value of the task itself. Their decision was based on what was appropriate for their unique apostolic function.
* **Word (Greek, _lógos'_):** Here, "the word of God" refers to the message of the Gospel, the teachings of Christ, and the ongoing revelation of God's truth. It encompasses the apostles' primary ministry of preaching, teaching, and authoritative instruction. This term, particularly significant in Johannine theology where it refers to Christ Himself ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh")), emphasizes the divine origin and power of the message they were commissioned to proclaim.
* **Serve (Greek, _diakonéō'_):** Derived from the root of the English word "deacon," this term means "to be an attendant," "to wait upon," or "to minister." While it can refer to a broad range of service, here it specifically denotes the practical administration of daily needs, particularly the distribution of food. The apostles are not demeaning this service but distinguishing it from their unique spiritual _diakonia_ (ministry) of the Word.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said,"**: This opening phrase highlights the apostles' leadership and initiative in addressing the burgeoning problem. "The twelve" refers to the authoritative apostolic body, and "the multitude of the disciples" indicates a large, inclusive gathering of the entire Christian community in Jerusalem. This demonstrates a transparent and communal approach to decision-making, involving the broader body of believers in the resolution of the conflict.
* **"It is not reason that we should leave the word of God,"**: This is the core declaration of the apostles' prioritization. "It is not reason" (Greek: _ouk estin arestos_) signifies that it is not proper, fitting, or agreeable for them, as apostles, to abandon or neglect their primary divine commission. "The word of God" refers to their central task of preaching, teaching, and stewarding the Gospel message, which was essential for the spiritual health and growth of the church. This statement underscores their understanding of their unique, non-negotiable calling.
* **"and serve tables."**: This phrase identifies the specific practical task that the apostles deemed inappropriate for their direct involvement, given their higher calling. "Serve tables" (Greek: _diakonein trapezais_) literally refers to the act of distributing food or managing financial transactions (as tables were also used by money changers). In this context, it symbolizes the administrative and logistical duties associated with the daily distribution of provisions to the needy. The apostles recognized that while this service was vital, it was a distraction from their spiritual mandate and could be effectively handled by others.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Contrast** is central, setting "the word of God" against "serving tables." This highlights the apostles' clear distinction between spiritual and administrative ministries, not to devalue the latter, but to emphasize the unique and indispensable nature of their primary calling. **Synecdoche** is present in "serving tables," where the specific act of distributing food stands in for the broader category of all practical, administrative, and material care within the community. This concise phrase effectively encapsulates the entire logistical challenge. Furthermore, the apostles' statement functions as a form of **Prioritization**, articulating a clear hierarchy of responsibilities based on divine calling and giftedness, which becomes a model for church leadership and organization.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 6:2 offers profound insights into the nature of ministry and church organization. It establishes a critical principle: while all service within the body of Christ is valuable and necessary, there is a divine order and prioritization of callings. The apostles, as direct witnesses and authoritative teachers of Christ's resurrection, understood their unique role was to devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word, ensuring the spiritual nourishment and doctrinal purity of the nascent church. This decision was not about demeaning practical service but about recognizing the distinct gifts and callings necessary for the holistic flourishing of the community. It underscores the importance of leadership focusing on its core spiritual mandate, enabling others to use their gifts in practical administration, thus fostering both spiritual and physical well-being within the church.

* [Acts 6:4](/acts/6-4 "Acts 6:4 - Apostles Devote Themselves to Prayer and the Ministry of the Word")
* [1 Corinthians 12:4-7](/1_corinthians/12-4-7 "1 Corinthians 12:4-7 - Diversity of Gifts, Unity in the Spirit")
* [Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6-8 "Romans 12:6-8 - Exercising Spiritual Gifts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 6:2 serves as a timeless paradigm for individuals and church communities navigating the complexities of ministry and service. It challenges us to discern our primary calling and unique giftedness, ensuring that our main efforts align with what God has specifically equipped and commissioned us to do. For leaders, it underscores the wisdom of delegation, empowering others to use their diverse gifts in service, thereby preventing burnout, fostering broader participation, and ensuring that all necessary tasks—both spiritual and practical—are accomplished effectively. This passage reminds us that while the "word of God" must remain central, the "serving of tables" is equally vital for the health and outreach of the church. Every form of service, from teaching to administration to hospitality, contributes to the body's flourishing and reflects the love of Christ. Our task is to identify where we are best suited to serve, allowing the church to operate as a unified, multifaceted body.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is my primary calling or unique giftedness within the body of Christ, and how am I prioritizing it?**
* **In what ways might I be neglecting my core spiritual responsibilities by getting bogged down in administrative or practical tasks that others could handle?**
* **How can I better empower and affirm those who are gifted in practical service, recognizing their vital contribution to the church?**
* **Does my church effectively delegate responsibilities, allowing leaders to focus on spiritual oversight and members to serve according to their diverse gifts?**

### FAQ

**What was the specific problem the apostles were addressing?**

Answer: The apostles were addressing a complaint from the Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jewish widows that they were being neglected in the daily distribution of food compared to the Hebraic (Aramaic-speaking) Jewish widows. This issue, arising from the rapid growth of the early church in Jerusalem, threatened to cause disunity and distract the apostles from their core spiritual responsibilities. The problem is detailed in [Acts 6:1](/acts/6-1 "Acts 6:1 - The Complaint of the Hellenists").

**Why was 'serving tables' considered less important than 'the word of God' for the apostles?**

Answer: The apostles did not consider "serving tables" (i.e., practical administration and food distribution) to be less important in an absolute sense, but rather less appropriate for *their specific* divine calling. Their unique commission was to be witnesses of Christ's resurrection, to preach the Gospel, and to teach the "word of God" with authority, as seen in passages like [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - You Will Be My Witnesses") and [Acts 4:33](/acts/4-33 "Acts 4:33 - Apostles Testify to the Resurrection"). Diverting their time and energy to administrative tasks, while necessary, would have hindered their primary spiritual ministry, which was foundational for the church's growth and doctrinal integrity.

**Did the apostles devalue practical service by delegating it?**

Answer: No, the apostles did not devalue practical service. On the contrary, by delegating the task of "serving tables" to seven reputable men "full of the Spirit and of wisdom" ([Acts 6:3](/acts/6-3 "Acts 6:3 - Qualities of the Seven")), they elevated its importance and ensured it would be handled with spiritual discernment and competence. Their decision was a strategic move to ensure *both* spiritual and practical needs were met effectively, recognizing that all forms of service are vital for the body of Christ, as further emphasized in [Romans 12:4-5](/romans/12-4-5 "Romans 12:4-5 - Many Members, One Body").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 6:2, though seemingly a practical administrative decision, profoundly reflects Christ's own ministry and the nature of His body, the Church. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied both the "word of God" and humble service. He was the [Logos, the Word made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), whose primary ministry was to proclaim the Kingdom of God, teach divine truth, and reveal the Father ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). Yet, this same Jesus also demonstrated profound practical service, washing His disciples' feet ([John 13:1-17](/john/13-1-17 "John 13:1-17 - Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet")) and ministering to the physical needs of the crowds, even miraculously feeding them ([Matthew 14:13-21](/matthew/14-13-21 "Matthew 14:13-21 - Feeding the Five Thousand")). The apostles, in Acts 6:2, were not abandoning service but modeling Christ's wisdom in prioritizing the spiritual feeding of the flock while ensuring that practical needs were met by those gifted for such service. This decision allowed the "word of God" to continue spreading unhindered ([Acts 6:7](/acts/6-7 "Acts 6:7 - The Word of God Increased")), fulfilling Christ's Great Commission ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")) through a well-ordered and Spirit-empowered body, where diverse gifts contribute to the holistic health and mission of the church, reflecting the very heart of their Servant King who came "not to be served but to serve" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")).

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

Exodus 18:17

And Moses' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest [is] not good.

Exodus 18:26

And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves.

Deuteronomy 1:9

¶ And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone:

Deuteronomy 1:14

And ye answered me, and said, The thing which thou hast spoken [is] good [for us] to do.

2 Timothy 2:4

No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of [this] life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

Nehemiah 6:3

And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I [am] doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?

Numbers 11:11

And Moses said unto the LORD, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?