Acts 6:2

So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, "It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables.

Study Bible

So the Twelve
This phrase refers to the twelve apostles, the foundational leaders of the early Christian church. The number twelve is significant, symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel, and indicating the continuity of God's covenant people. The apostles were chosen by Jesus to be His closest followers and were entrusted with spreading His teachings. Historically, the Twelve held a unique authority in the early church, guiding its doctrine and practice.

summoned all the disciples
The act of summoning indicates a gathering of the broader group of believers, not just the apostles. The term "disciples" here refers to the followers of Jesus who were committed to learning from the apostles. This gathering underscores the communal nature of the early church, where decisions were made collectively. The Greek root for "disciples" is "mathētēs," meaning learners or students, highlighting the role of believers as continual learners of Christ's teachings.

and said
This phrase introduces the direct speech of the apostles, indicating their leadership role. The apostles' words carry weight and authority, as they are seen as the primary interpreters of Jesus' teachings. The act of speaking here is not just communication but a directive, guiding the early church in its mission and organization.

It is unacceptable
The word "unacceptable" conveys a strong sense of impropriety or inappropriateness. The Greek word used here is "arestos," which can mean pleasing or acceptable. The apostles are making a clear judgment about priorities, emphasizing that certain tasks, while important, should not detract from their primary mission.

for us to neglect
Neglect implies a failure to give proper attention or care. The apostles recognize the danger of being distracted from their primary responsibilities. The Greek root "kataleipō" means to leave behind or abandon, suggesting that the apostles are concerned about abandoning their God-given duties.

the word of God
This phrase refers to the teachings and message of Jesus Christ, which the apostles were commissioned to spread. The "word of God" is central to the mission of the church, and the apostles prioritize it above all else. Historically, the proclamation of the word was seen as the primary means of spreading the gospel and growing the church.

in order to wait on tables
The phrase "wait on tables" refers to the practical service of distributing food and resources to the needy within the community. The Greek word "diakonein" is used here, which means to serve or minister. This service is important, but the apostles recognize that their primary calling is to preach and teach. This distinction leads to the appointment of deacons, who would take on these practical responsibilities, allowing the apostles to focus on spiritual leadership. This decision reflects the early church's understanding of different roles and gifts within the body of Christ, ensuring that all needs are met without compromising the mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Twelve Apostles
The primary leaders of the early church, responsible for teaching and spreading the message of Jesus Christ. They are addressing a practical issue within the church community.

2. The Disciples
Refers to the broader group of believers in the early church who were following the teachings of Jesus and the apostles.

3. The Early Church
The community of believers in Jerusalem, experiencing rapid growth and facing logistical challenges in caring for its members.

4. The Hellenistic Jews
Greek-speaking Jews who were part of the early church and felt their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food.

5. The Daily Distribution
A system set up by the early church to provide for the needs of its members, particularly widows and those in need.

Teaching Points

Prioritizing Spiritual Responsibilities
The apostles recognized the importance of focusing on their primary calling to preach and teach the Word of God. This highlights the need for leaders to prioritize spiritual responsibilities over administrative tasks.

Delegation and Empowerment
The decision to appoint others to handle practical matters demonstrates the importance of delegation and empowering others within the church to use their gifts for service.

Addressing Community Needs
The early church's response to the needs of its members shows the importance of being attentive and responsive to the practical needs within a faith community.

Unity and Fairness
The apostles' action to address the complaint of the Hellenistic Jews underscores the need for fairness and unity in the church, ensuring that all members are cared for equitably.

Role of Service in Ministry
Serving others, even in practical ways, is a vital part of ministry and reflects the heart of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can church leaders today balance the demands of spiritual leadership with practical administrative tasks?

2. In what ways can members of a church community be empowered to serve and meet the needs of others?

3. How does the early church's approach to addressing complaints and needs inform our understanding of conflict resolution within the church?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure fairness and unity in our own church communities?

5. How does the concept of service in Acts 6:2 relate to Jesus' teachings on servanthood in the Gospels?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:42-47
Describes the communal life of the early church, emphasizing the importance of fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, which sets the context for the logistical challenges faced in Acts 6:2.

1 Timothy 3:8-13
Provides qualifications for deacons, who are responsible for serving the church, similar to the role being discussed in Acts 6:2.

Exodus 18:17-23
Moses' delegation of responsibilities to capable men to help judge the people, paralleling the apostles' decision to delegate tasks to others.