How can Acts 6:3 guide us in selecting leaders for ministry today? Setting the Scene in Acts 6 “Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty.” (Acts 6:3) The early church faced a practical challenge—some widows were being overlooked in daily food distribution. The apostles refused to neglect prayer and the ministry of the word, so they asked the congregation to choose trustworthy servants. That single verse distills timeless guidance for recognizing ministry leaders. Four Non-Negotiable Qualities for Today’s Ministry Leaders • Good Reputation – Acts 6:3 begins with “men of good repute.” Character precedes competence. – “A good name is more desirable than great riches” (Proverbs 22:1). – Echoed in 1 Timothy 3:2,7 and Titus 1:7. • Full of the Holy Spirit – Spiritual life must be evident: love, joy, peace, and the rest of the fruit (Galatians 5:22-23). – Leaders model Spirit-led living (Ephesians 5:18). • Filled with Wisdom – Wisdom applies truth to real-world decisions. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). – Biblical wisdom guards doctrine, finances, relationships, and vision. • Ready for Specific Service – “Whom we will appoint to this duty.” Commitment to roll-up-the-sleeves tasks, not title-chasing. – Jesus’ pattern: “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). Practical Steps for Modern Churches • Select “from among you” (Acts 6:3): look first inside the congregation where lives are already known. • Invite congregational input while letting existing shepherds guard final appointment (cf. Acts 14:23). • Evaluate evidence of a Spirit-filled walk, not just charismatic gifts or résumés. • Measure wisdom by Scripture saturation, decision-making history, counsel sought, and teachability. • Pray and, if possible, fast before finalizing choices (Acts 13:2-3). • Publicly commission and clarify responsibilities (2 Timothy 2:2). Why These Standards Still Matter • They protect the flock from moral or doctrinal compromise (Acts 20:28-30). • Spirit-filled, wise leaders strengthen unity and promote growth (Ephesians 4:11-13). • A credible reputation bolsters evangelistic witness to outsiders (1 Peter 2:12). • Clear qualifications keep the church from drift toward celebrity culture or mere managerial efficiency. Summary Checklist for Leader Selection □ Known for integrity inside and outside the church □ Evident fruit of the Spirit in daily life □ Biblically grounded wisdom shaping decisions □ Servant heart eager to meet practical needs □ Affirmed by congregation, examined by elders □ Appointed with prayer, installed with clarity |
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