Translations
Original
Notes
The apostles showed wisdom by calling a meeting of all the Christians to resolve the dispute. They understood that the problem was very serious. They also knew their priority was teaching God's word. They decided to choose men who were wise and filled with the Holy Spirit to manage the food distribution.
The community agreed with the plan the apostles proposed. They selected capable leaders from the Christians who spoke Greek (all of their names are Greek). These seven men focused on this special task, allowing the apostles to pray and teach.
These seven men are sometimes called the first deacons because their role is similar to that of the office of deacon (see 1 Timothy 3:8–13). Although the Greek term translated “deacon” (Greek diakonos, “servant”) is not used here, a related Greek word is translated "to wait on tables" (6:2; Greek diakonein, “to serve”).
Events
- Seven chosen to servec. AD 30
Parallels
Glossary
Beggar Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Book of the Acts of the Apostles Deacon, Deaconess Disciple Elder Hellenism Hellenists Libertines Nicolas, Nicolaus Ordain, Ordination Persecution Peter, the Apostle Philip Prayer Spirit of God Stephen
Topics
Beneficence: General Scriptures Concerning Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Duties of Deacon: Selected by the People Ministers: should Preach with Constancy Missionary Work Prayerfulness: General Scriptures Concerning Religious Zeal: Exemplified The Apostles: Specially Devoted to the office of the Ministry