![]() Introduction Today, we turn our attention to Acts 6:1–7, a passage highlighting the opportunities and challenges faced by the early Church during its rapid growth. As the message of Jesus Christ spread, more and more people joined the community of believers, creating a vibrant and diverse congregation. While this growth was a cause for celebration, it also brought practical difficulties in managing the needs of such a large and varied group. A particular issue arose concerning the distribution of food to widows, where certain groups, like the Hellenistic Jews, felt overlooked in favor of the Hebraic Jews. This tension threatened to disrupt the unity of the Church and distract the apostles from their primary mission of prayer and ministry of the Word. This passage not only reveals how the early Church faced these challenges but also demonstrates the wisdom of appointing Spirit-filled individuals to ensure that the community's needs were met without compromising their spiritual priorities. Acts 6:1 - 7 In the early days of the Church, as the number of believers increased, so did the diversity of its members. Among these were Hebraic Jews and Grecian Jews. Hebraic Jews were native to Judea and primarily spoke Aramaic or Hebrew, maintaining strong ties to Jewish traditions and customs. In contrast, Grecian Jews, or Hellenistic Jews, were Greek-speaking and lived outside Judea due to the diaspora—a scattering of the Jewish population that began in 586 BC when the Babylonians destroyed the first temple. While both groups shared a common faith and ancestry, cultural and linguistic differences created challenges in the community. One issue arose around the care of widows, who were among the most vulnerable members of Jewish society. Jewish traditions prioritized supporting widows, and the early Church adopted similar practices through the daily distribution of food. However, it became evident that the Grecian widows were being overlooked in this distribution while the Hebraic widows were being adequately served. This inconsistency likely stemmed from logistical challenges or unconscious biases, but it caused frustration and complaints from the Grecian Jews, highlighting a growing divide within the community. The Grecian Jews were a unique group within the early Church. They were descendants of those who had fled Judea during the Babylonian conquest and had since lived in various parts of the Greek-speaking world. Many of these Jews later returned to Jerusalem, particularly in their old age, desiring to die and be buried in the holy city. Without extended family nearby, Grecian widows were especially dependent on the Church for their daily needs. Their neglect of food distribution created a practical problem and raised concerns about fairness and unity within the Church. The diaspora, which began centuries earlier, had a lasting impact on Jewish identity and community dynamics. While the Hebraic Jews maintained a closer connection to their homeland and traditional practices, the Grecian Jews blended Jewish heritage and Hellenistic cultural influences. Though enriching, these differences also led to misunderstandings and divisions that needed to be addressed for the Church to remain united and effective in its mission. It’s reasonable to conclude that the neglect of the Grecian Jews was not intentional discrimination but rather a result of the overwhelming needs of the growing Church. The rapid expansion of the community presented logistical challenges, and if not addressed carefully, this situation could have led to significant division within the Church. This reality is still relevant today. Churches often face challenges when needs within the congregation go unmet or unrealistic expectations are placed on leadership. Sometimes, a church grows so large that it becomes difficult to manage the increasing demands, leaving some members feeling overlooked. Other times, leadership may be overwhelmed by the sheer weight of responsibilities, unable to keep up with their expectations. In either case, if these challenges are not addressed, they can lead to division and even the collapse of a church community. The apostles in Acts 6 found themselves in a similar predicament. As needs were being overlooked, they recognized they could not take on additional responsibilities without compromising their primary mission. Rather than ignoring the problem, they wisely sought a solution. They restructured their leadership to ensure that the congregation's needs could be met effectively. In response to the concerns of the Grecian Jews, the apostles declared, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.” By delegating responsibility to qualified individuals, the apostles ensured that the Church's spiritual and practical needs were addressed, maintaining unity and focus within the community. At first glance, the apostles’ response might seem dismissive, as if they considered themselves too important to handle the practical needs of the church, such as serving widows. However, that is not the case. Their response was not an attempt to diminish the importance of caring for widows but rather a recognition of their God-given calling to focus on preaching the Word and prayer. The apostles affirmed the significance of the ministry to the widows while understanding that they could not effectively fulfill both roles. Instead, they sought others who were called and equipped to serve in this vital area of ministry. In response, the apostles appointed the first deacons of the church. While the passage does not explicitly use the term "deacons," it lays the foundation for this role. The Greek word for deacon means "servant," "attendant," or "one who waits upon." These seven individuals were appointed to serve the people, specifically to ensure the needs of the widows were met. The role of a deacon is far more than just a title or position within the church—it is a sacred calling to serve with humility and dedication. Deacons are vital to the church's life, as they ensure the practical needs of the congregation are addressed, creating a strong foundation for ministry. By taking on these responsibilities, deacons enable pastors and elders to devote themselves fully to prayer and the ministry of the Word. Their appointment underscores the significance of shared leadership and the diverse gifts and callings within the body of Christ. However, the calling of a deacon comes with specific requirements outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8–10: "In the same way, deacons must be well respected and have integrity. They must not be heavy drinkers or dishonest with money. They must be committed to the mystery of the faith now revealed and must live with a clear conscience. Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons." A deacon must be a person of respect and integrity, not indulging in heavy drinking or dishonest practices for personal gain. They must be committed to the truth of the Christian faith and live with a clear conscience. Additionally, their character and actions should be tested and proven trustworthy before they are entrusted with the responsibilities of this role, ensuring they are prepared to serve the church with faithfulness and humility. A deacon must be a spiritual person who is submitted to God and possesses a vision for the future. They must also demonstrate wisdom, an essential quality for leadership. Wisdom is not about knowing everything, nor is it solely about intelligence. Rather, wisdom often involves understanding one’s limitations and recognizing that we don’t have all the answers. It is a quality that grows with time and experience. As Mark Twain once humorously observed, when he was fifteen, he thought his father was ignorant, but by the time he turned twenty-one, he was amazed at how much his father had “learned” in just six years. This highlights that wisdom comes from perspective, humility, and a willingness to learn over time. The Grecian Jews were pleased with the apostles’ proposal and selected seven men to take on this important responsibility. The men chosen were Stephen, described as “a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit,” along with Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch, who had previously converted to the Jewish faith. These men were brought before the apostles, who laid hands on them and prayed over them. By appointing these seven, the apostles ensured that the practical needs of the community were met, allowing the gospel to continue spreading and more souls to be added to the Kingdom of God. Application Christianity is not a solo act—it’s a team effort. The Bible often refers to the church as a body, emphasizing that we are a group of individuals working together to fulfill a purpose. In 1 Corinthians 12:24–27, it says: "But God has put the body together such that extra honor and care are given to those parts that have less dignity. This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it." We are reminded here that we form one body, and each of us has a unique role to play. God has gifted every believer, and it’s essential that we use these gifts to serve the church and glorify Him. James Montgomery Boice observes, “People who study church growth find that, in order to have a maximally healthy church, at least 60 percent of the people should be engaged in some church work.” He further explains, “If you have a church where 60 percent of the people are engaged in some work for Jesus Christ, that church is in ministry... However, as valuable as that 60 percent figure may be as a goal, it can never be the ideal. The ideal is 100 percent, and the apostles, with wisdom from God, recognized this principle when they suggested the election of these deacons.” The ministry work is relevant today as we strive to build a healthy, thriving church community. Here are three practical ways to apply these truths to our lives and service within the church.
Conclusion Acts 6:1–7 reminds us that the early Church, despite its rapid growth and diversity, faced challenges much like those we encounter today. From the neglect of certain groups to the overwhelming responsibilities of leadership, the apostles demonstrated a Spirit-filled approach to problem-solving—one that prioritized unity, service, and the advancement of God’s kingdom. By delegating responsibilities and appointing Spirit-filled individuals, the apostles ensured that both practical and spiritual needs were met, allowing the Church to continue thriving. This passage calls us to reflect on our role within the body of Christ. As members of His Church, we are all uniquely gifted and called to serve. When it comes to the work of the Lord, no task is too small or role insignificant. Whether through prayer, teaching, serving, or supporting others, each of us has a part to play in fulfilling God’s mission. Let us take inspiration from the wisdom and humility of the apostles and the faithfulness of the seven appointed deacons. May we build a community where every member is valued, every need is met, and the name of Jesus is glorified. Just as the early Church flourished when each person contributed, we can see God’s kingdom expand when we unite with hearts committed to serving Him and one another. So, as we go forth, let us ask ourselves: How can we serve the body of Christ today? How can we use our God-given gifts to glorify Him and bless others? Let us step into our calling with faith, humility, and a willingness to serve, trusting that God will use us for His glory.
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![]() Church growth has been a topic of discussion among pastors for decades. One of the first questions often asked at a pastor’s conference is, “How many members do you have in your church?” Today, this question carries a new weight as clergy across the United States face new challenges to church attendance. Recent studies reveal a decline in church participation, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. From 2020 to 2023, the percentage of Americans attending church weekly fell to 20%, while 57% of adults reported attending seldom or never. This marks a significant shift from pre-pandemic patterns, with many churches struggling to regain attendance levels. Meanwhile, the number of “unchurched” individuals continues to rise. While interest in spirituality remains high, especially among younger generations, this has not translated into greater church involvement. Instead, they are turning to alternative forms of spirituality by identifying as Spiritual but not religious. Spiritual interests include New Age practices, Neopaganism, and mixed religious traditions (i.e., mixing Buddhist, Christian, Hinduism, etc.). Millennials and Gen Z tend to have a lower rate of formal religious affiliation than previous generations. A significant portion identifies as "nones" (no religion), with many embracing a fluid and eclectic approach to spirituality. These trends paint a sobering picture for pastors grappling with addressing a growing cultural disengagement from traditional church life. In response, many churches have joined the Church Growth Movement, a collective effort to reverse these trends. Today, resources on church growth abound, ranging from books and seminars to online programs and tools. A simple Google search for “church growth” yields millions of results, underscoring the widespread interest and urgency surrounding this topic. While not all these resources prove effective, they highlight the shared desire among pastors to see their congregations thrive once again. However, while innovative strategies and modern resources can be helpful, true church growth must remain rooted in biblical principles. Today, I want to explore a biblical approach to cultivating a healthy and Spirit-led church. Every pastor dreams of seeing their congregation flourish, perhaps even requiring additional services due to growth. Yet, growth must be healthy, sustainable, and Spirit-driven. We turn to Acts 2:42–47, which provides a timeless model of a thriving and biblically grounded church community. Acts 2:42–47 A Biblical Model for Church Growth Peter’s sermon in Acts 2 demonstrated the power of the Holy Spirit, leading to 3,000 new converts. In the following verses, we see four key characteristics of a healthy church that I hope will inspire and challenge us as a church body and as individuals to live Spirit-filled lives, resulting in a Spirit-filled church. Four Characteristics of a Healthy Church 1. A Church That Values God’s Word Acts 2:42 reveals that the early church devoted itself to the apostles’ teaching. It is important to note that the early believers did not have a physical Bible like we do today. While the Old Testament Scriptures were recognized as sacred, Jesus' teachings, death, burial, and resurrection were also regarded as divine. The apostles’ words were held in high esteem as they relayed their experiences with Jesus and His teachings. A Spirit-filled church will always prioritize studying the Word of God. If the Spirit of God resides in us, we will naturally be drawn to His Word. Bible study provides the foundation for spiritual growth, equipping believers to live according to God’s will and to share His truth with others. Furthermore, studying Scripture allows us to deepen our understanding of God’s character and His plan for humanity. As 2 Timothy 3:16–17 reminds us, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Churches today must prioritize sound biblical teaching. This means creating opportunities for members to engage with the Word of God, whether through sermons, Bible study groups, or personal devotional practices. A church's health is directly tied to its commitment to Scripture. 2. A Church That Fellowships The early church also devoted itself to fellowship, as seen in Acts 2:42. The Greek word “Koinonia” conveys the idea of holding something in common. The believers had a shared bond through Jesus Christ, fostering fellowship with Him and with one another. This fellowship included worship and the breaking of bread, as mentioned in verse 42. However, it extended beyond merely gathering together. Verses 44 and 45 illustrate the depth of their fellowship: “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” This generosity stemmed from their understanding of God’s generosity toward them. Their fellowship was not limited to attending church services but involved meeting each other’s needs and sharing life together. As James Montgomery Boice noted, “If you find yourself out of fellowship with God, you will begin to find yourself out of fellowship with other believers. But if you come close to God, you will inevitably find yourself being drawn to other Christians.” Fellowship is more than socializing; it is about creating a community where believers can support and encourage one another. In today’s fast-paced, individualistic society, the church must strive to build authentic relationships among its members. This might involve organizing small groups, hosting events that foster connection, or simply encouraging members to practice hospitality in their homes. 3. A Church That Prays The early church was also a praying church. It prayed corporately and privately, recognizing its importance and power. Through prayer, believers gained wisdom, received healing, interceded for others, worshiped God, and grew in their relationship with Him. Prayer must remain a central discipline for any healthy church. It is through prayer that the church aligns itself with God’s will and seeks His guidance for its mission and growth. Acts 4:31 provides a powerful example of the early church’s prayer life: “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” This verse highlights the transformative power of prayer, which strengthens individual believers and empowers the church to fulfill its mission. Churches today should prioritize prayer in all aspects of ministry. This could include organizing prayer meetings, encouraging members to form prayer partnerships, or integrating prayer into every church activity. By doing so, the church invites God’s presence and power into its midst. 4. A Church That Evangelizes Although Acts 2:47 does not explicitly state that the early church engaged in evangelism, it does say, “The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” This suggests that the believers were sharing the Gospel, as the church’s growth was evident. Peter’s sermon in the chapter resulted in thousands of conversions, which continued throughout the book of Acts. Sharing the Gospel—the message of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—is critical to church growth. Christ has entrusted us with the responsibility of spreading His message, and through our obedience, He brings people to Himself. Matthew 28:19–20, known as the Great Commission, commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Evangelism can take many forms, from personal conversations to organized outreach events. Regardless of the method, the goal remains the same: to share Christ's love with a world in need. Churches must equip their members to confidently share their faith and create opportunities for them to engage with their communities. Healthy Church Growth: A God-Driven Process These four characteristics provide a biblical model for how the church should operate today. When individuals and congregations embody these traits, they cultivate an environment for healthy growth. However, it is crucial to remember that growth ultimately comes from God. Acts 2:47 emphasizes that “the Lord added to their number daily.” While we are called to share the Gospel and live Spirit-filled lives faithfully, it is God who causes the growth. A healthy church focuses on being spiritually vibrant, trusting that God will use its faithfulness to advance His kingdom. This God-driven process challenges us to shift our focus from numerical growth to spiritual health. While it is natural to desire a growing congregation, true success lies in the spiritual maturity and vitality of its members. By prioritizing biblical teaching, authentic fellowship, committed prayer, and faithful evangelism, we create an environment where God can work powerfully. Conclusion The early church in Acts 2:42–47 provides a timeless model for healthy church growth: devotion to the Word, genuine fellowship, committed prayer, and faithful evangelism. As individuals and as a church, may we strive to embody these characteristics, trusting God to bring growth in His way and in His time. With hearts open to His leading, we can be part of a Spirit-filled movement that impacts the world for Christ. In a world where many are seeking spiritual fulfillment outside the church, it is more important than ever for the church to be a beacon of hope, love, and truth. By following the biblical model for church growth, we can rise to meet this challenge, drawing people to the transformative power of the Gospel. Let us commit ourselves to this mission, trusting that God will do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine ![]() Audio link : https://jeffreyholton.podbean.com/e/holyspiritpentecost/ Introduction Acts 2 stands as a foundation of Christian history, capturing the moment when the promise of the Holy Spirit was fulfilled. Taking place during the Jewish festival of Pentecost, this chapter describes how the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, empowering them to speak in different languages and boldly proclaim the message of Christ. This event not only marked the birth of the Church but also signified theaq beginning of a new era in God’s relationship with humanity, where His Spirit would dwell within believers. Today, we will explore the events of Acts 2:1 - 13, the significance of the Holy Spirit’s advent, and the impact this moment continues to have on the life of the Church and individual believers today. Acts 2:1 - 13 The Setting of Pentecost Acts chapter 2 begins during the celebration of Pentecost in Jerusalem. Pentecost, also known as the Feast of Weeks, occurred fifty days after Passover. This festival marked the beginning of the wheat harvest and was one of three major Jewish feasts that required pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Given the favorable travel conditions in early summer, Pentecost likely drew large crowds, making it an ideal time for God to demonstrate His power and fulfill His promises. In Acts 2:1, the disciples gathered in one place. This phrase emphasizes their unity—they were physically present in the same place and shared a unified mindset and passion. This spiritual and emotional unity set the stage for the following extraordinary events. The Arrival of the Holy Spirit The first significant occurrence was a sound from heaven described as “like the roaring of a mighty windstorm” that filled the house where the disciples were gathered. The symbolism of wind is noteworthy. This connection underscores the Holy Spirit’s role as the breath of God, bringing life and power to His people. Next, the disciples saw what appeared to be tongues of fire resting upon each of them. Fire is a recurring symbol of God’s presence throughout Scripture, from the burning bush in Exodus to the pillar of fire that guided the Israelites. At Pentecost, the fire signifies that God’s presence now resides within each believer individually. Former Pastor and author R. Kent Hughes notes, “The emphasis from Pentecost onwards is on the personal relationship of God to the believer through the Holy Spirit.” This shift signifies a new era in which the Spirit empowers every believer to carry out God’s work. The third event was the disciples speaking in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. This supernatural ability to speak languages they had not learned amazed the onlookers and served as evidence of the Holy Spirit’s power. In the Old Testament, inspired speech often accompanied the Spirit’s work in God’s servants. Thus, to devout Jews witnessing these events, it was clear that the Holy Spirit had come. The Significance of Pentecost Pentecost marks a moment in the history of the Church and God’s redemptive plan for humanity. On this day, God chose to fulfill His promise by pouring His Spirit upon the believers, enabling them to accomplish tasks far beyond their natural abilities. This event was not merely a historical occurrence but a demonstration of God’s power and presence working through His people. At Pentecost, the disciples were transformed into bold, courageous witnesses, preaching the Gospel in languages they had never learned and drawing thousands to Christ. This divine empowerment was not reserved exclusively for the apostles or the early Church. It is a gift that extends to all believers, emphasizing that every follower of Christ is called to live a Spirit-filled and Spirit-empowered life. Through the Holy Spirit, God equips His people with the wisdom, strength, and courage needed to fulfill His purposes. Through preaching, teaching, serving, or encouraging others, the Spirit enables believers to accomplish what would otherwise be impossible in their strength. Today, the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in believers' lives. He comforts us in times of trouble, guides us into all truth, and empowers us to obey God’s will. The Spirit equips us with spiritual gifts to build up the Church and advance God’s Kingdom, ensuring that the mission of Pentecost is carried on through every generation. The significance of Pentecost also reminds us of our dependency on God. It highlights that the work we are called to do—sharing the Gospel, caring for others, or living out our faith—is not something we can accomplish on our own. It is only through the Spirit’s power that we can overcome challenges, bear fruit, and make a lasting impact in the world. Pentecost invites believers to embrace the Spirit’s presence and power, living a life marked by boldness, purpose, and reliance on God. It is a call to recognize that the same Spirit who worked mightily on that day continues to work in and through us, empowering us to be His witnesses and fulfill the mission He has given us. The Reaction of the Onlookers The miraculous events of Pentecost did not go unnoticed. The disciples’ ability to speak in various languages drew the attention of devout Jews from across the known world. These individuals, representing diverse regions such as Parthia, Media, Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Egypt, and Rome, were astonished to hear Galileans speaking their native tongues. Galileans were generally regarded as uneducated and unsophisticated. That they could suddenly speak in multiple languages was nothing short of miraculous. Acts 2:7 captures the crowd’s amazement: “They were completely amazed. “How can this be?” they exclaimed. “These people are all from Galilee.” The content of their speech—praising God and declaring His mighty works—further emphasized the divine origin of this phenomenon. Some onlookers, however, dismissed the event, accusing the disciples of being drunk. This skepticism reflects humanity’s tendency to rationalize the supernatural. Peter’s response to these accusations powerfully defends the gospel and explains the significance of Pentecost in light of prophecy. Lessons from Pentecost Pentecost teaches us several important lessons about the Holy Spirit and the Christian life.
Application for Today The Church today must ask itself whether it relies on the Holy Spirit’s power or merely operates in human strength. Too often, we cling to our own agendas and resist the Spirit’s leading. True spiritual vitality comes when we abandon self-reliance and make room for God to work. As we reflect on the events of Pentecost, let us evaluate our own lives. When was the last time you prayed, “God, I am dropping my agenda and emptying myself of me so that there can be room for You in my life, my family, my work, and my church”? Conclusion The events of Pentecost in Acts 2 reveal the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Just as the Spirit empowered the disciples to proclaim God’s works boldly, He empowers believers today to live out their faith and fulfill their divine calling. As we close, let us take a moment to reflect on our dependence on the Holy Spirit. Have we truly emptied ourselves to allow God to fill us with His presence? May we, like the apostles, experience the Holy Spirit more deeply and powerfully. The Spirit brings new life to those who believe in Jesus and provides continuing power to those willing to be filled. Let us open our hearts to His work and live Spirit-filled lives, bringing glory to God and advancing His kingdom on earth. |
Jeff has been in full-time ministry for thirty years. He currently serves as Executive Director at Anchor House Ministry at SeaPort Manatee in Palmetto, FL and he is a part-time Campus Pastor at West Bradenton Southside in Bradenton, Florida.
Jeff Has authored A Lent Devotional (A Spiritual Journey to Lent) an Advent Devotional (The Advent of Jesus) and a devotional on the book of James (James: Where Faith and Life Meet). All three are available on Amazon. He is married to Carrie and they have four children, Micaiah, Gabe, Simon, and Berea. Preview or purchase Jeff's Books
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