Growing Pains

Acts 6:1-7

Introduction

In this passage, Satan unveils a third tactic to destroy the Early Church.    1) Persecution (4:1-22);   2) Corruption (5:1-11);   3) Dissention & Distraction (6:1-7)

I.  The Problems (v. 1)

1.  The Church was experiencing extraordinary numerical growth in a short period of time

• 5,000 men (cf. 4:4) = approximately 20,000 people in total including women and children!
• The leadership of the Twelve Apostles was no longer sufficient to keep up with the demands of ministry

2.  Formation of ‘Cliques’ and Factions within the Church

• Cultural tension between the ‘Hellenists’ (ie. Greek speaking Jews), and the ‘Hebrews’ (ie. Aramaic speaking Jews)
• Hellenist party felt that their widows were being neglected à Dissention!

3.  Spiritual Leaders of the Church were getting bogged down in Administrative tasks à Distraction!

II. The Solution (vv. 2-6)

1.  Select qualified people for leadership roles

• Congregation was involved in the selection process
• Leadership of the Church appoints and ordains

2.  Qualities of leaders within the Local Church

• Good reputation
• Full of the Spirit
• Wisdom from above

III. The Outcome (v. 7)

1.  Unity within the church family (v. 5)

2.  Multiplication of ‘ministers’ within the church

• This story hints at the beginning of the “Elder/ Deacon” distinction which we still observe today
• It is the role of the Church Leaders to equip the saints for ministry (cf. Ephesians 4:11-13)
• There is no hint that one role within the local body, is more ‘spiritual’ that any other role!

3.  Multiplication of new believers as everyone serves the Lord together with their unique spiritual gift!

IV. Application

1.  The work of ministry is not confined to the Pastor and Elders – every  believer is a ‘minister’

• Everyone has a unique gift from the Holy Spirit
• Everyone has a responsibility to use that gift to the glory of God in a Local Church
• God cares much more about your character than your qualifications!

2.  The gospel overcomes all racial, cultural, political and socio-economic barriers

Growing Pains – Acts 6:1-7