Acts Chapter 6 — The Seven Deacons and Stephen’s Ministry
The apostles appoint seven men to manage the daily distribution of food to widows, while Stephen faces false accusations after performing great signs.
1Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, a complaint arose from the Hellenists*The Hellenists used Greek language and culture, even though they were also of Hebrew descent. against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily service.
2The twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not appropriate for us to forsake the word of God and serve tables.
3Therefore, select from among you, brothers, seven men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4But we will continue steadfastly in prayer and in the ministry of the word.”
5These words pleased the whole multitude. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch,
6whom they set before the apostles. When they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
7The word of God increased and the number of the disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem. A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
8Stephen, full of faith and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.
9But some of those who were of the synagogue called “The Libertines”, and of the Cyrenians, of the Alexandrians, and of those of Cilicia and Asia arose, disputing with Stephen.
10They weren’t able to withstand the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.
11Then they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”
12They stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes, and came against him and seized him, then brought him in to the council,
13and set up false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking blasphemous words against this holy place and the law.
14For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.”
15All who sat in the council, fastening their eyes on him, saw his face like it was the face of an angel.
WEB Translation
Notable Verses
Acts 6:3
“Therefore, select from among you, brothers, seven men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.”
This verse establishes the qualifications and the purpose for those chosen to serve in administrative roles within the early church.
Acts 6:7
“The word of God increased and the number of the disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem. A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.”
This highlights the continued expansion of the early church and its influence even among the Jewish priesthood.
Acts 6:15
“All who sat in the council, fastening their eyes on him, saw his face like it was the face of an angel.”
This striking description underscores Stephen's divine favor and calm presence despite being surrounded by false accusers.
Chapter Summary
As the early church in Jerusalem grows, a dispute arises between Greek-speaking and Hebrew-speaking Jewish believers regarding the care of widows. To address this fairly while allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and preaching, the community selects seven men of high character and wisdom to manage the daily service. Among these is Stephen, a man described as being full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Stephen performs significant wonders and signs, which prompts opposition from members of several synagogues. Unable to withstand his wisdom, his opponents secretly incite men to testify falsely against him. They accuse Stephen of blaspheming Moses, God, the temple, and the law. He is seized and brought before the council, where witnesses claim he spoke of Jesus destroying the temple and changing Mosaic customs. The chapter concludes with the council members observing that Stephen's face appears like that of an angel.
Frequently Asked Questions
They were appointed to ensure the daily distribution of food was handled fairly after Greek-speaking Jewish believers complained that their widows were being neglected. This allowed the apostles to remain focused on prayer and teaching the word of God.
Stephen was one of the seven men chosen to help manage the needs of the community. He is described as being full of faith, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit, and he performed great wonders and signs among the people before facing opposition.
Opponents induced witnesses to claim Stephen spoke blasphemous words against Moses, God, the temple, and the law. They specifically alleged he said Jesus would destroy the temple and change the customs delivered by Moses.
Study Note
The term 'Hellenists' refers to Greek-speaking Jews who had adopted elements of Greek culture, distinguishing them from the 'Hebrews' who primarily spoke Aramaic and followed local traditions.
Related Chapters
Acts Chapter 7
The narrative of Stephen's trial and his defense continues directly in the next chapter.
Exodus Chapter 34
The description of Stephen's radiant face mirrors the account of Moses' face shining after speaking with God.
Matthew Chapter 26
The use of false witnesses to bring charges before the council parallels the trial of Jesus.
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