How important are they?
The church was growing, so much so that certain widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. There arose a complaint. Acts 6
The apostles called the church together and stated, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.” Acts 6:2 It’s time for others to take this on.
They need to have a good experiential relationship with Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, and wisdom. A vibrant relationship with Jesus, Holy Spirit’s infilling continually, and His wisdom. They found seven.
“But we will give ourselves continually to prayer and the ministry of the word.” Acts 6: 4 If they stopped praying and serving the word of God (Ministry is the same word as serve in verse 2), then the life of Christ being seen and demonstrated would soon dissipate into human energy. The same men who had slept through Jesus’ three hours of prayer in the garden of Gethsemane were not going to make that mistake again. They didn’t.
All service to God is invaluable, but our service in prayer and the word over those we love and have charge over is foremost. It’s the work of eternity in hearts, grace in lives, and Holy Spirit-fulness. We can all serve in God’s family in specific ways and through our devotional lives for those we love.
