Ministry Priorities #1

Sunday, April 23, 2023

“Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables” (Acts 6:2 KJV).

What are the two chief elements of a Christ-honoring ministry?

Read today’s Scripture in context: “[1] And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. [2] Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. [3] Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. [4] But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.”

With the Messianic Church growing at an extraordinary rate, there occurred an organizational crisis that could no longer be overlooked. Widows of the “Grecians”—or Greek-speaking Jewesses—were not receiving their fair share of the food being distributed. The Hebrew widows—or Hebrew-speaking Jewesses—were getting preferential treatment. This unfortunate situation was likely accidental, not deliberate. Nevertheless, it had to be rectified, and the Grecians were complaining for something to be done. Therefore, the 12 Apostles made an informed decision to let them choose seven men who would carry out the daily ministration (food service) with the Grecian widows in mind.

It is striking how the 12 Apostles were able to discern with mature spiritual eyes what they had to do compared to what others could do. That is to say, the 12 Apostles knew their priority was “the word of God” (verse 2). Like all of us, they had limited time and energy, so they needed to make the most of them. It was far more advantageous for these men to concentrate on preaching the Word of God, and suggesting the other members of believing Israel select seven men who could then be ordained to head the food services. This is such basic spiritual common sense, and we can learn something from this too….