Early church fractaling

Early church fractaling

S - Acts 6:1-5 (NASB)

¹ Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. ² So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. ³ Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. ⁴ But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” ⁵ The statement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit 

O -   This passage comes right at a time when the ministry of the early church is really starting to rapidly grow.  They had received the Holy spirit, and were teaching daily in the temple, and performing many great miracles as well as proclaiming the gospel.  The scripture says at least a couple of times that their numbers were growing by increments of four and five thousand.    With increasing numbers became the typically administrative challenges of caring for the flock.  This happended to Moses, who helped set the entire nation of Israel free , but then was burdened with shepherding a large population.    The disciples knew here also, that they were to continuing to preach the Gospel boldly, and likely from the example of Moses they chose men of good reputation to care for the daily needs of serving food.

A - The application is a biblical one in which we see the way to lead a congregation, a ministry, or a team is done by knowing what your mission is, staying focused on it, and building a team of people aligned to support the mission.   The idea of leaders building a team of people focused on mission,  operating in their strengths and gifts,  being edified and equipped,  all the while moving toward a preferred vision of the future is one which I honestly believe is blessed by God, when aligned with His spirit and His vision for His people.

P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your daily inspiration and revelation in you word, may this lesson be sealed to my heart. Lord I pray that you would help us at New Hope Aiea to be followers of your spirit and your ways.  Help us like the early church disciples, to be wise in the direction we choose to go, and the people we raise up to lead your people.   I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.