What Did the 12 Apostles Want to Do in Acts 6? A Deeper Look at the Appointment of Deacons
Acts 6 describes a pivotal moment in the early church's development, highlighting a crucial need for delegation and the subsequent appointment of deacons. The core issue wasn't simply about workload; it was about ensuring the effective functioning and spiritual well-being of the growing Christian community. So, what did the twelve apostles want to do? They wanted to focus entirely on prayer and the ministry of the Word.
Let's break down the situation and explore the underlying motivations:
The Problem: Neglecting Spiritual Needs Amidst Growing Practical Demands
The early church in Jerusalem experienced rapid growth, attracting a diverse population of Jewish believers and converts. This burgeoning community presented a significant logistical challenge:
- Distribution of resources: The daily distribution of food and other necessities to widows and the needy became a major administrative task.
- Growing complaints: A significant concern arose, specifically regarding the Greek-speaking widows being overlooked in the daily distribution of aid. This resulted in a murmur among the Hellenistic Jews against the Hebrew-speaking Jews. This wasn't just about practical needs; it threatened the unity and harmony of the burgeoning fellowship.
The apostles recognized the seriousness of the situation. The burgeoning practical needs threatened to overshadow their primary responsibility: spiritual guidance and teaching. Their core mission was to spread the Gospel, and the logistical burden was distracting them from this vital task.
The Solution: Delegating Practical Responsibilities
The apostles, realizing they couldn't effectively manage both the spiritual and practical aspects of the growing church, sought a solution. Instead of personally handling the daily distribution, they proposed a delegation:
"It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables." Acts 6:2
This verse encapsulates the essence of their desire. They weren't shirking their responsibilities; they were recognizing the importance of strategic delegation to maximize their impact. They wanted to dedicate themselves fully to prayer and the ministry of the word – the core spiritual functions vital for the growth and sustenance of the faith.
Choosing Seven Deacons: More Than Just Servants
The selection process for the seven deacons emphasizes their character and qualifications. The apostles insisted that these individuals be "full of the Spirit and wisdom" (Acts 6:3). This signifies that the deacons were not merely administrators; they were also to be spiritual leaders, equipped to support the church's spiritual well-being alongside their practical duties.
The Significance of Acts 6
The events in Acts 6 serve as a model for church leadership and organization. It demonstrates the crucial balance between spiritual leadership and practical administration. The apostles' decision highlighted the importance of:
- Prioritizing spiritual matters: The ministry of the Word and prayer were seen as paramount.
- Effective delegation: Recognizing limitations and empowering others to share responsibility is vital for the health and growth of any organization.
- Holistic ministry: The church's mission encompasses both spiritual and physical needs.
In conclusion, the twelve apostles in Acts 6 wanted to dedicate themselves fully to prayer and the ministry of the word, freeing themselves from the increasingly demanding practical tasks that threatened to overwhelm their primary spiritual responsibilities. Their actions provide a timeless lesson in leadership, organization, and the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth in the life of the church.
