Acts 6:5

Acts 6:5 details a pivotal moment in the early Christian church: the selection of the first seven men to serve the community, specifically to address the practical needs of daily food distribution. This decision arose from a complaint by Hellenistic Jews that their widows were being overlooked in the burgeoning Christian fellowship, as described in Acts 6:1.

Context

The apostles, recognizing the need to devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4), proposed that the congregation choose seven men "of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom" (Acts 6:3) to manage the distribution of resources. This verse, Acts 6:5, records the positive reception of this proposal by the "whole multitude" and lists the names of those chosen, signifying the church's first step towards formalized administrative structure beyond the apostles.

Key Themes

• Spirit-Filled Leadership: The primary qualification for these chosen men was not just administrative skill but spiritual character. Stephen, notably, is described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost." This emphasis on divine empowerment for service underscores a core principle of early Christian leadership.
• Delegation and Organization: The selection process highlights the early church's practical wisdom in managing its rapid growth. By delegating administrative tasks, the apostles ensured both the welfare of the community and their own focus on spiritual nourishment. This established a precedent for effective church governance.
• Diversity in Service: The list includes men with Hellenistic names, and specifically notes Nicolas as "a proselyte of Antioch." This demonstrates the inclusive nature of the early church, welcoming individuals from various backgrounds, including those who had converted to Judaism before becoming Christians. This diversity strengthened the unity of the body, as hinted at in the communal practices of the early believers.

Linguistic Insights

• "Holy Ghost" (KJV): The Greek term is Pneuma Hagion, referring to the Holy Spirit. Being "full of the Holy Ghost" implies not just possession of the Spirit but being controlled, empowered, and guided by Him, essential for effective ministry.
• "Proselyte": From the Greek prosēlutos, meaning "one who has come to." It denotes a Gentile who had converted to Judaism and undergone circumcision and ritual immersion before embracing Christianity. Nicolas's inclusion shows the broad appeal of the Gospel.

Significance & Application

The selection of these seven men, often considered the first deacons (though not explicitly called "deacons" here, their role aligns with later descriptions of the diaconate in 1 Timothy 3:8-13), illustrates that spiritual ministry encompasses both the proclamation of the Word and practical service to the community. It teaches us that:

1. Character Precedes Competence: Spiritual maturity and a Spirit-filled life are paramount for those in positions of service.
2. Meeting Practical Needs is Spiritual Work: Caring for the vulnerable and ensuring equitable distribution of resources is a vital expression of Christian love and a necessary component of church life.
3. Wise Leadership Delegates: Effective leaders empower others to use their gifts, allowing the entire body of believers to function optimally.

Stephen, in particular, quickly became a prominent figure, performing "great wonders and miracles among the people" (Acts 6:8) and ultimately becoming the first Christian martyr, as recorded in Acts 7:60.