THE CHOOSING OF THE SEVEN
chapter 6
1. In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.
2. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.
3. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them
4. and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."
5. This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.
6. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
7. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
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Acts 6:1-7Questions for Acts 6:1-7
Key verse 6:3-4
THE CHOOSING OF THE SEVEN
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What problem arose in the early church (1)? What do you think was the cause of the problem?
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How did the apostles respond to this problem (2-3)? What were the qualifications for choosing the seven men (see v3 in different translations, e.g., ESV, NASB)? What was their responsibility? Why was it important to choose and set up the seven men in that situation?
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What would the apostles devote themselves to (4)? Why was this decision essential for the church of God?
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What was the whole group’s reaction to this proposal (5)? Name and characterize the seven people who were chosen. How did the apostles bless these seven men (6)?
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What was the outcome of this resolution (7)? What kind of faith community do we need to form to fulfill God’s mission?
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