practical matters
The believers at the time of the
writing were primarily a mix of Aramaic and Greek speaking Jews. Perhaps there were some oversights or some
preferences that arose because of language, or geographical origin, but it does
appear that the believers are trying to operate in unity, albeit imperfectly.
Similar to when Moses was doing
far too much for one man (Exodus
18:16-17), it seems the disciples had too much on their plates. When tensions arose about some widows being
neglected, they promptly responded to rectify the situation.
Practical matters were not seen as lower, or less spiritual. The apostles requested recommendations for
men who would be good to appoint as overseers of the disbursement of
goods. The qualities that are identified
as necessary are (1) a good reputation, (2) full of the Holy Spirit, and (3)
full of wisdom. Though the position may
at first glance appear to be on a base physical level, it was in reality much
more.
Once the appointment was made, the apostles prayed and laid hands on the
men. The selection was made and the
appointment done with great care. Do you
sometimes seek and expect the glamorous leader positions to be influential,
rather than the humble roles of servitude?
What was the state of the church
shortly after this? (verse 7)
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Jesus was very clear about the
“upside-down” nature of His kingdom. He
did not need the brilliant, the beautiful, the powerful. He wanted the humble and the willing. I wonder if Stephen’s appointment positioned
him in, and taught him more about, the body of believers so that when it came
time for him to speak he was better able to do so. As we will see in the coming chapters,
Stephen and Philip,(and probably the others), were not just “servers”. Later they are noted as also active in
witnessing and evangelizing, and to some degree serving as a bridge to the next
stage of witness and mission to Christians in Judea and Samaria.
We should never underestimate the incredible power and impact of humble service in practical matters.
Read
and Pray: Matthew 20:25-28, John
15:12-17, Colossians 3:17
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