Acts 6:2

Seven Chosen to Serve

1 Now in those days, ^awhen the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the ^bHellenists, because their widows were neglected ^cin the daily distribution.

2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, ^a“It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.

3 Therefore, brethren, ^aseek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this ^bbusiness;

4 but we ^awill give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, ^aa man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and ^bPhilip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and ^cNicolas, a proselyte from Antioch,

Commentaries:

Forerunner Commentary
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What Does Acts 6:2 Mean?

Acts 6:1-3

It is not without validity that most of our impressions or beliefs about our family, close friends, and acquaintances automatically involve knowledge about their character as a part of their reputation. Obviously, our interactions give us insight to these people's characters and reputations, whether our perceptions are true or false. Those who know us best will see any growth of character or lack of it. Even so, some can have blind spots in relation to a particular person (for instance, a mother may ignore her son's flaws), or the person may have a talent for concealing their shortcomings, even from those closest to them.

We see a positive side of this in Acts 6:1-3, where the apostles tell the church to choose seven men to become deacons. One of the criteria was that these men were to be "of good reputation," which translates from the Greek word martureo, meaning "to be a witness, that is, to testify (literally or figuratively)." The KJV also renders martureo as "give [evidence]," "bear record," "obtain a good honest report," "be well reported of."

These men were to show evidence of God's Spirit and wisdom in their lives, a combination of a good name as well as growth in character. It is interesting that, because they knew them best, the people were to select these men according to their character.

Staff
Our Reputation, Our Character

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Seven Chosen to Serve

What Does Acts 6:2 Mean?

A Verse and a Thought,Every Morning

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Every Morning