Opening: Ever had an argument or disagreement with a parent
or a spouse? Sure you have, but try to remember a specific one. What was it
about? Something little or something big?
Scripture: Read Acts 6:1-7.
Insights:
- Do not simply skip over this passage; this was a major issue in the church and was potentially divisive. There were accusations of prejudice, favoritism, racism, and withholding charity. It is naive to think churches are immune to problems; even the Early Church, with its miraculous growth and witness, experienced trouble.
- Read Acts 6:2 in as many translations as you can to see how this verse is translated. The response of the apostles is not caulis or unfeeling; they know what God has told them to do, and doing anything else would keep them from that divine call. By selecting seven Greek speaking men, respected and full of the Spirit and wisdom, and giving them this responsibility, the apostles then can devote their time to prayer and teaching the word.
- Once the conflict is resolved, the church gets back to its mission: preaching the Gospel. And the church continues to grow. And note that for the first time, the text tells us that “many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.” Even the establishment is choosing Jesus.
Life Questions:
- How does it feel when the church goes through conflict? Can you see similarities between your experience and today’s passage? Remember, there is no perfect church on Earth; only in heaven. And a church does not have to be perfect to advance the cause of Christ.
- It is essential for Christian disciples to know what God wants them to do and how He has designed them. Apostles were meant to preach and pray, not administer a food distribution. Do you know what God has called you to do? Do you know how He has designed you? Do you know your spiritual gifts? If not, consider attending First Sunday: Spiritual Gifts on October 7.
