Leader Bible Study | The Church Handled a Problem (Acts 6)
Acts 6 relays a time when a complaint within the church led to an opportunity for delegation and good deeds. As the apostles continued spreading the word of Jesus and His resurrection, more people began to believe the good news and the church grew in number. Amid this growth, the task of caring for the Hellenistic widows was
being neglected.
How did the apostles handle this complaint between the different groups of believers in their church? How did they choose to pursue unity despite the different needs and giftings of those in their community?
In this chapter, we witness how the apostles chose not to ignore the critiques of the Hellenistic Jews. Instead, the members of the Twelve sought to bring more individuals into service opportunities for God’s glory—a proposal that pleased the whole church. From this newfound service initiative came the deacon ministry!
The apostles’ approach to this complaint was rooted in their desire for unity within the body of Christ and the proclamation of the gospel. They instructed the church to select seven men of good character, sound wisdom, and obedience to the Holy Spirit to care for the widows in need of help. With this delegation of duties, the disciples could continue their work of prayer and preaching the Word. As the deacons served and the apostles preached the Word, the gospel reached even further, and a large group of priests came to faith in Jesus.
Help kids see how they can serve within their church—even now as children! Explain how your work as a Bible study leader is fulfilling the Great Commission in this moment! We all have the important job of sharing God’s Word with others. God is pleased by our obedience and service and may choose to use it to take the gospel
even further.
TERMS TO KNOW
Deacon: a servant or minister (not a pastor); The noun form comes from a verb which means “to serve.” Many interpreters believe the account in Acts 6 describes the selection of the first deacons.