Serving God’s People — Acts 6:1–7
Oct 6, 2026 13
People were coming to faith in Jesus, but some widows were missing out on food. Serving God’s people meant meeting that need while ensuring the message of Jesus kept being proclaimed.
Acts 6:3–4
[3] 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. [4] But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” (ESV)
Serving God’s people together
The church in Jerusalem was growing. But Greek-speaking Jewish believers raised a complaint: their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food (Acts 6:1).
These women belonged to the church family, and they needed care. The apostles gathered the believers and proposed a way forward.
Seven men would take responsibility for this practical ministry, freeing the apostles to devote themselves to prayer and teaching God’s word.
[Watch this week’s video devotion with Dave Miers]
Notice the kind of people they needed: men with a good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom. Caring for vulnerable people mattered enough to require trustworthy, spiritually mature leaders.
The apostles had a particular responsibility to proclaim Jesus. The Seven had a particular responsibility to oversee the daily provision. Both were serving God and his people.
The church agreed, chose the Seven, and brought them to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them (Acts 6:5-6).
And what happened?
Acts 6:7
[7] And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith. (ESV)
God’s word continues to spread and change lives!
Serving God’s people involves different responsibilities. We need people who faithfully teach the Bible and pray. We also need people who take responsibility for practical care. This passage helps us value both and consider how we can serve.
The Good News is…
Jesus came to serve us and give his life to rescue us (see Mark 10:45). He died in our place, for our sin, and rose again. Through trusting him, we receive forgiveness and belong to his people.
Our service flows from what he has done for us. As we care for one another and support the sharing of his word, we follow the Saviour who first served us.
Like and share so others can see Jesus clearly.
Further reading: Acts 6:1-7.
Reflection
What practical responsibility could you take on to help your church care for people and keep sharing God’s word?
Rev. Dave Miers
President, Good News Unlimited