We have seen Satan attack the church with sin (Ananias and Sapphira), persecution (Jews) and now with division over helping the poor.

Tension arose due to the Greek speaking believers feeling that their widows were being neglected (v1). The church was made up of both Hebraic and Greek speakers and this added to the tension.

While understanding that this was very important, the apostles would not allow themselves to be distracted from the ministry of the Word (v2). As a church we need to make sure those who minister in the Word are given the support they need so that they are not distracted from such a vital role.

Seven men are to be chosen for this task so that the apostles are not distracted (v3-4). The men that are needed must be full of the Spirit and wisdom (v3). This means they too would be men of prayer, have a good knowledge of scripture and how to apply it.

In the church we need more and more people who are full of the Spirit and of wisdom. How do you measure up to this? Pray about this.

Seven are chosen (v5), and they are prayed for by the apostles (v6). The result of this practical support and the apostles being kept free to look after the ministry of the word and prayer, was increased growth in the church (v7). Let’s earnestly pray for this in our church.