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.