◄ Acts 6 ►
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The Choosing of the Seven (1 Timothy 3:8–13) 1In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jewsa because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will assign this responsibility to them 4and will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.b 6They presented these seven to the apostles,c who prayed and laid their hands on them. 7So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith. The Arrest of Stephen 8Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people. 9But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia.d They disputed with Stephen, 10but they could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. 11Then they prompted some men to say, “We heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God.” 12So they stirred up the people, elders, and scribes and confronted Stephen. They seized him and brought him before the Sanhedrin,e 13where they presented false witnesses who said, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. 14For we have heard him say that Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs that Moses handed down to us.” 15All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel. Footnotes: 1 a Literally the Hellenists began to grumble against the Hebrews 5 b Literally and Nicolas, a convert of Antioch 6 c Literally —whom they set before the apostles, 9 d Literally and those from Cilicia and Asia; the Roman Province of Asia was located in what is now western Turkey. 12 e Or the Council; also in verse 15 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 6 Summary The Choosing of the Seven Verses 1–7 – Appointment of the Seven As the number of disciples explodes in Jerusalem, Greek-speaking believers complain that their widows are being overlooked in the daily food distribution. The Twelve gather the whole community and explain that their chief calling is “prayer and the ministry of the word.” They ask the church to select seven reputable, Spirit-filled men to oversee the practical relief work. The choice pleases everyone. The seven—Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas—are presented to the apostles, who pray and lay hands on them. The result: “The word of God continued to spread, and the number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith” (Acts 6:7). Verses 8–10 – Stephen’s Powerful Witness Stephen, “full of grace and power,” performs “great wonders and signs among the people.” Members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen—Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and Asia—debate him, yet “they could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.” Verses 11–15 – Stephen Seized and Falsely Accused Unable to refute Stephen, opponents secretly persuade men to accuse him of blasphemy against Moses and God. The crowd, elders, and scribes grab Stephen and haul him before the Sanhedrin. False witnesses claim, “This man never stops speaking against this holy place and the Law.” As they charge him, everyone sees Stephen’s face shining “like the face of an angel.” Acts 6 presents the early Church’s approach to internal conflict and the rise of its first servant leaders. Amidst a dispute between the Hellenistic and Hebraic Jews, the apostles demonstrate wisdom by appointing deacons to manage the distribution of food, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and ministry. Stephen, one of the deacons, stands out for his wisdom and spiritual powers, which eventually lead to false accusations against him. Historical Setting • Jerusalem, likely A.D. 31–33, only months after Jesus’ resurrection. • The church is still entirely Jewish but now includes Greek-speaking Jews (Hellenists) and Aramaic-speaking native Judeans (Hebrews). • Daily food distributions to widows reflect Old Testament commands to protect the vulnerable (Deuteronomy 14:28-29; 24:19-21). Hellenists and Hebrews Hellenists grew up in the wider Roman world; their main language was Greek. Hebrews were locals who spoke Aramaic and held tightly to Temple customs. Cultural misunderstandings—not doctrinal division—create the complaint. Acts 6 displays how the gospel unites different sub-cultures when needs are faced honestly and leaders respond humbly. Why Seven? • Seven was a traditional Jewish number for completeness (cf. Genesis 2:2-3; Joshua 6:15). • Greek cities often appointed seven officials to handle public funds. The church adopts a culturally familiar structure yet fills it with Spirit-led men. Qualifications Listed (v. 3) 1. “Men of good reputation” – trusted by insiders and outsiders alike (Proverbs 22:1). 2. “Full of the Spirit” – already demonstrating reliance on God (Galatians 5:16-23). 3. “Full of wisdom” – able to apply truth to messy life situations (James 3:13-18). Apostolic Priorities The Twelve refuse to be distracted from “prayer and the ministry of the word.” Their decision models the balance of proclamation and compassion: they oversee vision while empowering others for hands-on service (Ephesians 4:11-12). Laying On of Hands • Old Testament roots: commissioning Joshua (Numbers 27:18-23). • Symbolizes identification, blessing, and transfer of responsibility. • The act shows public affirmation and unity. Stephen: First Named, First Martyred • Described as “full of faith and of the Holy Spirit” (v. 5) and “full of grace and power” (v. 8). • His miraculous ministry echoes that of the apostles (Acts 5:12), underscoring that God works through more than the original Twelve. Synagogue of the Freedmen • Likely formed by descendants of Jews previously enslaved by Rome and later liberated. • Members from Cilicia may explain Saul of Tarsus’ later presence (Acts 7:58; 22:3). • Debating Stephen fits synagogue practice where Scripture was publicly discussed. False Charges Parallel Jesus’ Trial • “Blasphemy” accusation (Mark 14:64). • Charge of threatening the Temple (Matthew 26:61). • Council manipulated by planted witnesses (Exodus 23:1). Luke invites readers to compare Stephen’s experience with his Lord’s, reinforcing that following Jesus includes sharing His sufferings (1 Peter 4:13). Themes in Acts 6 • Servant leadership—needs prompt structure, but character outweighs skill. • Word and deed—sound teaching fuels genuine compassion. • Growth amid conflict—internal problems handled wisely lead to greater expansion. • Gospel breaking boundaries—Greek names dominate the Seven, hinting at the mission to Gentiles (Acts 8–11). Connections Across Scripture • Moses faced overload and shared duties with seventy elders (Exodus 18:13-26; Numbers 11:16-17). • Jesus fed crowds, demonstrating care for physical and spiritual hunger (Mark 6:34-44). • Paul later instructs churches to appoint qualified servants (1 Timothy 3:8-13). Archaeological and Extra-Biblical Insights • First-century Jerusalem had hundreds of mikva’ot (ritual baths); these may have served as sites for baptism and daily charity collections. • Inscriptions naming “Freedmen” synagogues have been discovered in Rome, supporting Luke’s mention of diaspora synagogue networks. • Ossuaries from the era confirm the presence of Jewish priestly families; Acts 6:7 notes “a great number of priests” embracing the faith, a detail that aligns with widespread priestly households in Jerusalem. Foreshadowing Stephen’s arrest sets the stage for his sweeping defense in Acts 7 and becomes the catalyst for widespread persecution, which then propels the gospel to Judea, Samaria, and beyond (Acts 8:1-4). Philip—another of the Seven—will carry the message to Samaria and to an Ethiopian official, fulfilling Jesus’ promise in Acts 1:8. Practical Takeaways for Today • Address cultural tension quickly and fairly. • Share leadership to free pastors for teaching and prayer. • Choose servants by spiritual maturity, not popularity. • Expect opposition when God’s word advances, yet trust the Spirit to give wisdom beyond human ability (Luke 21:12-15). Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Timothy 3:8-13 This passage provides further qualifications for deacons, emphasizing the importance of character and faithfulness in service. Ephesians 4:11-13 Highlights the various roles within the church and the purpose of equipping the saints for the work of ministry. Philippians 2:3-4 Encourages believers to act with humility and consider the interests of others, promoting unity and service. Teaching Points The Problem of Distribution Acts 6:1 describes a complaint that arose among the Hellenistic Jews against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. This highlights the challenges of managing a diverse and growing community. The Role of the Apostles In Acts 6:2-4, the apostles recognize the need to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word. They propose selecting seven men to handle the distribution, demonstrating the importance of delegation and prioritizing spiritual responsibilities. Qualifications for Service Acts 6:3 outlines the criteria for those chosen to serve: they must be men of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom. This emphasizes the need for spiritual maturity and integrity in leadership roles. The Selection of the Seven Acts 6:5-6 records the selection of Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas. The community's involvement in choosing these men underscores the value of collective discernment and unity. The Result of Wise Leadership Acts 6:7 reveals the outcome of the apostles' decision: So the word of God continued to spread, and the number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith. Effective leadership and service lead to growth and transformation. Practical Applications Addressing Conflicts When conflicts arise in the church, address them promptly and with wisdom, seeking solutions that promote unity and fairness. Delegation in Ministry Recognize the importance of delegating tasks to capable individuals, allowing leaders to focus on their primary spiritual responsibilities. Qualifications for Service Ensure that those serving in leadership or ministry roles are spiritually mature and exhibit godly character. Community Involvement Encourage active participation and discernment within the church community when making important decisions. Focus on Growth Prioritize actions and decisions that contribute to the spiritual growth and expansion of the church. People 1. Stephen Description: Stephen is described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5). He is the first of the seven chosen to serve and is later noted for performing great wonders and signs among the people. His name, Στέφανος (Stephanos), means "crown" in Greek. 2. Philip Description: Philip is another of the seven chosen. He later becomes known as Philip the Evangelist, who plays a significant role in spreading the Gospel beyond Jerusalem. His name, Φίλιππος (Philippos), means "lover of horses" in Greek. 3. Prochorus Description: Prochorus is one of the seven appointed to serve. His name, Πρόχορος (Prochoros), means "leader of the dance" in Greek. 4. Nicanor Description: Nicanor is listed among the seven. His name, Νικάνωρ (Nikanor), means "conqueror" in Greek. 5. Timon Description: Timon is another of the seven. His name, Τίμων (Timon), means "honorable" or "worthy" in Greek. 6. Parmenas Description: Parmenas is one of the seven chosen. His name, Παρμενᾶς (Parmenas), means "abiding" or "steadfast" in Greek. 7. Nicolas Description: Nicolas is described as "a proselyte from Antioch" (Acts 6:5), indicating he was a Gentile convert to Judaism before becoming a Christian. His name, Νικόλαος (Nikolaos), means "victory of the people" in Greek. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location where the events of Acts 6 take place. It is the city where the early church is growing and where the apostles are preaching and performing miracles. Jerusalem holds significant importance as the spiritual and cultural center for the Jewish people and the early Christian community. The Greek term for Jerusalem used in the New Testament is "Ἰερουσαλήμ" (Ierousalēm). Events 1. Complaint of the Hellenistic Jews The chapter begins with a complaint from the Hellenistic Jews against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. This highlights early church challenges in managing resources and ensuring fairness among diverse groups. The Greek term "διακονία" (diakonia) is used here, emphasizing the service or ministry aspect of the distribution (Acts 6:1). 2. The Twelve Apostles' Response The Twelve Apostles convene all the disciples and propose a solution. They emphasize the importance of focusing on prayer and the ministry of the word, rather than being distracted by administrative tasks. This decision underscores the priority of spiritual leadership and teaching in the early church (Acts 6:2-4). 3. Selection of the Seven The congregation is instructed to select seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom, to oversee the distribution. This decision reflects the early church's practice of delegating responsibilities to qualified individuals. The Greek word "πλήρης" (plērēs), meaning "full," indicates the spiritual and moral qualifications required (Acts 6:3). 4. Appointment and Prayer The chosen seven—Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas—are presented to the apostles, who pray and lay hands on them. This act of laying on of hands signifies the commissioning and blessing of these men for their specific ministry roles (Acts 6:5-6). 5. Growth of the Word and Disciples As a result of these actions, the word of God continues to spread, and the number of disciples in Jerusalem increases rapidly. Even a large number of priests become obedient to the faith, indicating the powerful impact of the church's witness and organization (Acts 6:7). 6. Stephen's Ministry and Opposition Stephen, described as full of grace and power, performs great wonders and signs among the people. However, opposition arises from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen, who dispute with him but cannot withstand his wisdom and the Spirit by which he speaks (Acts 6:8-10). 7. False Accusations Against Stephen Unable to counter Stephen's wisdom, his opponents secretly persuade some men to falsely accuse him of blasphemy against Moses and God. This leads to his arrest and presentation before the Sanhedrin, illustrating the early church's encounters with persecution and false testimony (Acts 6:11-14). 8. Stephen's Appearance Before the Sanhedrin As Stephen stands before the council, all who are present see his face as that of an angel. This description suggests a divine presence and approval, setting the stage for his subsequent defense and martyrdom (Acts 6:15). Lessons from Acts 6 1. The Power of Delegation In Acts 6, we see the early church facing a challenge: the daily distribution of food to widows was causing tension. The apostles wisely decided to delegate this responsibility, choosing seven men full of the Spirit and wisdom to handle the task. This teaches us the importance of delegation in our own lives. By entrusting tasks to others, we can focus on our primary mission, just as the apostles did. As it says in Acts 6:4, "But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." 2. The Importance of Community The early church was a vibrant community that cared for its members. When a problem arose, they addressed it together. This reminds us of the value of community in our own lives. We are called to support one another, just as the early believers did. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to "spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together." 3. The Role of the Holy Spirit The selection of the seven men in Acts 6 highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding decisions. The apostles sought men who were "full of the Spirit and wisdom" (Acts 6:3). This reminds us to rely on the Holy Spirit in our daily decisions, seeking His guidance and wisdom in all we do. 4. The Value of Service The seven men chosen to serve were not given a glamorous task, but their service was crucial to the church's mission. This teaches us that every act of service, no matter how small, is valuable in God's kingdom. As Jesus said in Matthew 23:11, "The greatest among you shall be your servant." 5. The Power of Prayer The apostles prioritized prayer, even in the midst of challenges. Acts 6:4 emphasizes their commitment: "But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." This reminds us of the power of prayer in our own lives, encouraging us to make it a priority, especially when facing difficulties. 6. The Growth of the Church Despite challenges, the early church continued to grow. Acts 6:7 tells us, "So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly." This shows us that when we remain faithful and address issues with wisdom, God can use our efforts to expand His kingdom. 7. The Importance of Character The men chosen to serve were known for their good character. Acts 6:3 describes them as "men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom." This highlights the importance of character in our own lives, reminding us to strive for integrity and righteousness in all we do. 8. The Role of Faithfulness Stephen, one of the seven, was known for his faithfulness. Acts 6:8 describes him as "a man full of God’s grace and power." His example teaches us the importance of being faithful in our service to God, trusting that He will use our efforts for His glory. 9. The Impact of Witness Stephen's witness, even in the face of opposition, had a profound impact. His boldness and faithfulness remind us of the power of our own witness. As Jesus instructed in Acts 1:8, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." 10. The Sovereignty of God Throughout Acts 6, we see God's sovereignty at work. Despite challenges, His purposes were fulfilled, and the church continued to grow. This reassures us that God is in control, even when circumstances seem difficult. As Romans 8:28 reminds us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Topics 1. The Appointment of the Seven (Acts 6:1-6) As the early church grew, a dispute arose between the Hellenistic Jews and the Hebraic Jews regarding the daily distribution to widows. The apostles decided to appoint seven men to oversee this task, emphasizing the importance of serving the community and maintaining unity. The Greek word "διακονία" (diakonia) is used here, highlighting the role of service or ministry. 2. The Selection of Stephen and Others (Acts 6:5) Stephen, described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit," was chosen along with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas. This selection underscores the importance of spiritual qualifications for leadership roles within the church. 3. The Growth of the Word of God (Acts 6:7) As a result of the apostles' decision and the appointment of the seven, "the word of God continued to spread," and the number of disciples increased significantly. This passage highlights the effectiveness of delegating responsibilities and the resulting growth of the church. 4. Stephen's Ministry and Opposition (Acts 6:8-10) Stephen performed "great wonders and signs among the people," which led to opposition from certain members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen. Despite their arguments, they could not withstand the wisdom and Spirit by which Stephen spoke, indicating the power of the Holy Spirit in his ministry. 5. False Accusations Against Stephen (Acts 6:11-14) Unable to refute Stephen's wisdom, his opponents resorted to false accusations, claiming he spoke blasphemous words against Moses and God. This reflects the early church's challenges and the persecution faced by its leaders. 6. Stephen's Arrest and Appearance Before the Sanhedrin (Acts 6:15) As Stephen stood before the Sanhedrin, his face appeared "like the face of an angel," signifying his innocence and the presence of the Holy Spirit. This imagery connects to the divine favor and protection over those who faithfully serve God. Themes 1. Conflict and Resolution in the Early Church Acts 6 begins with a conflict arising within the early Christian community: "In those days, as the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenistic Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food" (Acts 6:1). This theme highlights the challenges of maintaining unity and fairness in a growing and diverse community. The Greek term "διακονία" (diakonia), meaning service or ministry, underscores the importance of serving others as a core aspect of Christian life. 2. The Role of Deacons The apostles respond to the conflict by appointing seven men to oversee the distribution of food, emphasizing the importance of dedicated roles within the church: "Brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them" (Acts 6:3). This theme introduces the concept of deacons, derived from the Greek word "διάκονος" (diakonos), meaning servant or minister, highlighting the need for structured leadership and service in the church. 3. The Importance of Prayer and Ministry of the Word The apostles prioritize their focus on prayer and preaching: "But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word" (Acts 6:4). This theme underscores the foundational role of spiritual disciplines and the proclamation of the Gospel in church leadership, emphasizing the Greek term "λειτουργία" (leitourgia), which refers to public service or worship. 4. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit The selection of Stephen and others is marked by their being "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 6:5). This theme highlights the necessity of the Holy Spirit's empowerment for effective ministry and service, as seen in the Greek word "πνεῦμα" (pneuma), meaning spirit or breath, indicating divine enablement. 5. Growth of the Church Following the resolution of the conflict and the appointment of the seven, the church continues to grow: "So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith" (Acts 6:7). This theme reflects the dynamic and expansive nature of the early church, driven by effective leadership and the power of the Holy Spirit. 6. Persecution and Witness Stephen's ministry leads to opposition and false accusations: "They stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him before the Sanhedrin" (Acts 6:12). This theme highlights the reality of persecution faced by early Christians and the call to bear witness to the truth, as seen in the Greek word "μάρτυς" (martys), meaning witness or martyr. 7. Divine Wisdom and Authority Despite the accusations, Stephen's wisdom and spirit are undeniable: "But they could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke" (Acts 6:10). This theme emphasizes the divine wisdom and authority granted to believers through the Holy Spirit, as reflected in the Greek word "σοφία" (sophia), meaning wisdom. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment for church leaders as they address challenges and make decisions. Ask God to raise up individuals within the church who are full of the Spirit and wisdom to serve effectively. Seek unity and harmony within the church community, especially in times of conflict or disagreement. Pray for the continued growth and spread of the Gospel, both locally and globally. Thank God for the example of the early church and ask for the grace to apply these lessons in our own context. Answering Tough Questions 1. Acts 6:1 – How could a church supposedly led by the Holy Spirit allow discrimination against Hellenistic widows in its earliest stages? 2. Acts 6:3 – Is there any historical evidence outside the Book of Acts to confirm the selection of these specific seven men “full of the Spirit and wisdom”? 3. Acts 6:7 – If a “large number of priests” truly converted, why do contemporary Jewish or Roman sources not document such a mass defection from Judaism? 4. Acts 6:8 – Where is the historical or archaeological corroboration for Stephen’s “great wonders and signs” if these events were so extraordinary? 5. Acts 6:13–14 – Why are there no independent records of Stephen’s trial and the accusations of blasphemy, given it was ostensibly a public and contentious event? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the apostles' approach to resolving the complaint among the Hellenistic and Hebraic Jews teach about conflict resolution within the Church? 2. How does the appointment of the seven deacons emphasize the importance of servant leadership in the Church? 3. In what ways does Stephen's wisdom and the miraculous signs he performs demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit? 4. How does Stephen's response to false accusations inspire your personal faith journey? 5. Why do you think the apostles believed it was important for them to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word rather than distributing food? 6. How does Stephen's wisdom exceed human wisdom, and what implications does this have for your understanding of spiritual wisdom? 7. How can the principles of conflict resolution demonstrated in this chapter be applied to contemporary Church situations? 8. How does Stephen's courage in the face of opposition encourage believers facing similar situations today? 9. How should the appointment of the seven deacons influence the Church's approach to meeting the needs of its community? 10. What qualities made Stephen an effective servant leader in the early Church? 11. In what ways do the false accusations against Stephen underscore the risks of standing for one's faith? 12. How can the Church today ensure fair treatment and justice for all its members, as demonstrated in the apostles' response to the Hellenistic Jews' complaint? 13. How does Stephen's example inspire you to serve within your own church community? 14. What can we learn from the rapid growth of the Church following the appointment of the deacons? 15. How does the opposition to Stephen's ministry demonstrate the challenges faced by those boldly proclaiming the Gospel? 16. How does the early Church’s resolution of the widows’ neglect apply to resolving inequalities in the Church today? 17. In your life, how can you demonstrate the grace and power seen in Stephen? 18. How would you respond to false accusations about your faith, as Stephen did? 19. How does the principle of appointing deacons for practical service in the Church apply to the distribution of tasks and responsibilities in your community? 20. In what ways does the example of Stephen challenge you to display wisdom and spiritual boldness in your Christian journey? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions