How can Acts 6:6 guide us in selecting church leaders today? Acts 6:6 — A Snapshot of Early Church Practice “They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.” What’s Happening in the Verse • The congregation has identified qualified men (vv. 3–5). • The apostles receive them, demonstrating spiritual oversight. • Prayer precedes action, acknowledging dependence on God. • Laying on of hands publicly affirms and commissions the leaders. Timeless Principles for Selecting Leaders • Congregational involvement matters. God’s people, filled with the Spirit, recognize Spirit-filled leaders (Acts 6:3). • Spiritual authority must confirm the choice. Leaders already in place vet and commission new servants (1 Timothy 4:14). • Decisions are bathed in prayer. Leadership is a spiritual work, so guidance is sought from the Lord first (James 1:5). • Public affirmation gives clarity and unity. The laying on of hands signals endorsement and imparts confidence to the body (Acts 13:3). Character Before Function Acts 6:3 highlights men “of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom.” Today we still look for: • Proven godliness — 1 Timothy 3:2–7 emphasizes being “above reproach.” • Spirit-filled living — Galatians 5:22-23 fruit should be evident. • Practical wisdom — Leaders solve real problems, as with the food distribution conflict in Acts 6. Practical Steps for a Local Church 1. Teach biblical qualifications (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1) so the congregation knows what to look for. 2. Invite the body to recommend individuals whose lives already display those traits. 3. Elders/pastors interview and test the recommendations, seeking the Spirit’s confirmation through prayer. 4. Present the candidates to the congregation, explaining the process and inviting united affirmation. 5. Lay hands on the new leaders in a gathered service, praying for empowerment and protection. 6. Continue accountability and encouragement, just as Paul revisited appointed elders (Acts 14:23). Supporting Scriptures • Acts 13:3 — “After they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.” • 1 Timothy 5:22 — “Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands…” • Hebrews 13:17 — Leaders watch over souls and must give an account. • 2 Timothy 2:2 — Entrust truth to “faithful men who will be qualified to teach others.” Why It Still Matters Following the straightforward pattern of Acts 6:6 protects the church from personality-driven choices and keeps the process rooted in Scripture, prayer, and communal discernment. When we align with this model, the result is leaders recognized by God, affirmed by the church, and empowered to serve effectively. |
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