Acts 6:3

Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them

Study Bible

Therefore, brothers
The use of "therefore" indicates a conclusion or a decision based on previous discussions or events. In the context of Acts 6, the early church faced a challenge regarding the distribution of food to widows, which led to complaints. The term "brothers" (Greek: ἀδελφοί, adelphoi) is significant as it reflects the familial bond among believers, emphasizing unity and shared faith. This address underscores the communal nature of the early church, where decisions were made collectively and with mutual respect.

select from among you
The phrase "select from among you" implies a democratic process within the early church, where the congregation was involved in choosing leaders. This participatory approach highlights the importance of community discernment and accountability. The Greek word for "select" (ἐπισκέπτομαι, episkeptomai) suggests careful consideration and examination, indicating that the choice of leaders was not to be taken lightly but with prayerful deliberation.

seven men
The number "seven" is often associated with completeness or perfection in biblical literature. In this context, it may reflect a practical decision, possibly influenced by Jewish customs or the need for a manageable group size to effectively address the issue at hand. The choice of men (Greek: ἀνήρ, anēr) reflects the cultural norms of the time, where leadership roles were typically held by males, yet it also sets a precedent for structured leadership within the church.

confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom
The qualifications for these men are twofold: they must be "full of the Spirit" and "wisdom." Being "full of the Spirit" (Greek: πλήρης πνεύματος, plērēs pneumatos) indicates a life led by the Holy Spirit, characterized by spiritual maturity and evidence of the Spirit's fruit. "Wisdom" (Greek: σοφία, sophia) refers to practical insight and the ability to apply knowledge effectively. This dual requirement ensures that leaders are both spiritually grounded and capable of making sound decisions, reflecting the early church's emphasis on spiritual and practical leadership.

We will turn this responsibility over to them
The apostles' decision to delegate this responsibility (Greek: χρεία, chreia) signifies a strategic distribution of duties within the church. By entrusting this task to others, the apostles could focus on prayer and the ministry of the word, highlighting the importance of recognizing and utilizing diverse gifts within the body of Christ. This delegation also illustrates the principle of shared leadership and the empowerment of others to serve, which is foundational to the church's growth and effectiveness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostles
The leaders of the early church who were responsible for teaching and prayer. They recognized the need for additional leaders to manage practical matters.

2. The Seven Men
These were the individuals chosen to serve and manage the distribution of food, ensuring fair treatment of all, particularly the Hellenistic widows.

3. The Early Church
The community of believers in Jerusalem, experiencing rapid growth and facing logistical challenges in caring for its members.

4. Hellenistic Jews
Greek-speaking Jews who were part of the early church and felt their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food.

5. Jerusalem
The city where the early church was centered and where these events took place.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Delegation
The apostles recognized their limitations and the need to delegate responsibilities to others. This teaches us the importance of sharing leadership and responsibilities within the church.

Qualifications for Leadership
The criteria for selecting leaders included being "full of the Spirit and wisdom." This highlights the importance of spiritual maturity and practical wisdom in church leadership.

Community Involvement in Decision-Making
The apostles involved the community in selecting the seven men, demonstrating a model of participatory decision-making that values the input of the congregation.

Addressing Practical Needs
The early church's response to the needs of the Hellenistic widows shows the importance of addressing practical needs within the church community, ensuring that all members are cared for.

Spiritual and Practical Balance
The apostles maintained their focus on prayer and ministry of the word while ensuring practical needs were met, illustrating the balance between spiritual and practical aspects of church life.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities were the apostles looking for in the seven men, and why are these qualities important for church leadership today?

2. How does the process of selecting the seven men in Acts 6:3 reflect the principles of delegation and shared leadership?

3. In what ways can our church ensure that the practical needs of all members are being met, similar to how the early church addressed the needs of the Hellenistic widows?

4. How can we apply the principle of being "full of the Spirit and wisdom" in our personal lives and ministries?

5. What steps can we take to involve the congregation in decision-making processes, following the example of the early church in Acts 6:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 18:21
This passage describes Moses appointing capable men to help him judge the people, emphasizing the need for leaders who are trustworthy and fear God.

1 Timothy 3:8-13
Paul outlines the qualifications for deacons, which include being dignified, not double-tongued, and holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, which is a key qualification for the men chosen in Acts 6:3.