Delegation - Acts 6

30 □ Acts 6

Theme:  Choosing the seven deacons

S:  3 Therefore, brothers, choose from among you seven men with good reputations [men of godly character and moral integrity], full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. 4 But we will [continue to] devote ourselves [steadfastly] to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

O:  The Greek-speaking Jews of that day began to complain that their widows were being overlooked.  So the Twelve got together and instructed them to pick seven men with three particular characteristics (1-with good reputations [men of godly character and moral integrity], 2-full of the Spirit and of 3-wisdom) to delegate this task to.  This would free up the Twelve to continue to be devoted to steadfast prayer and teaching the Word.  The first two they selected were Stephen and Philip followed by Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas.  These seven were brought before the twelve apostles and were dedicated in prayer to do this service for the widows. 

Stephen was really on fire for the LORD and began to really do some wonders and signs which began to stir up some of the other leaders’ jealousy.  They got people to bring false testimony against Stephen and brought him to the Council.  We will leave Stephen there until tomorrow when we read about the rest of his trial and execution.

A:  I personally like this passage because it tells me that it is good to delegate certain tasks to free us up to do our calling.  I pray for the “Stephens and Philips and Prochorus’ and others” in my life that God brings to help me whether it is at home, in my work or in ministry.  This is a really good model and example for us.  It reminds me of Moses in the wilderness where he had to delegate out as well in order to not be so overworked and to focus on his top priorities.

 
P:  Dear Jesus, Thank you for the apostles and the early church leaders and deacons.  Each one had their own task and special place of service.  As we lift up our prayers to You I pray that each one of us would know where our place of service is.  Some are called to directly serve widows and others and some are called to prayer and to teaching the Word.  Help us to be dedicated as these men were.  Work through us and pour out Your Spirit on us so that we may be full of Your Spirit and found with wisdom.  May we be found of godly character and moral integrity in all that we do.  Help us to stand firm even when others question or attack us because they simply do not understand.  Thank You for sending Your Son and the message of salvation.  In Jesus’ Mighty Name I pray, Amen & Amen.