Acts 6:1-7

The Choosing of the Seven

1 In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews ^[a] because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. ¹

2 So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables.

3 Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will assign this responsibility to them

4 and will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. ^[b]

6 They presented these seven to the apostles, ^[c] who prayed and laid their hands on them.

7 So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Cross References

• 1. (1 Timothy 3:8–13)

Footnotes

• [a]. Literally the Hellenists began to grumble against the Hebrews
• [b]. Literally and Nicolas, a convert of Antioch
• [c]. Literally—whom they set before the apostles,