Today we are reading Acts 6. In this chapter we read about Stephen and the ministry he was called to. “Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.” Acts 6:1-6 ESV It is interesting that in this book that is all about the spread of the Gospel, we read about a support ministry. As we read further about Stephen, we find he was a bold and courageous evangelist. How are you involved in ministry? Would you meet the requirements that the disciples set for those who serve? How did the high expectations result in blessings for the church? What requirements do we set? May God give you the zeal of Stephen! Pastor Tim
