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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Acts 6:2 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.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/acts/6-2.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/44_Act_06_02.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Acts 6:2 - The Choosing of the Seven" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="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." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/acts/6-2.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/acts/6-2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/acts/">Acts</a> > <a href="/acts/6.htm">Chapter 6</a> > Verse 2</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/acts/6-1.htm" title="Acts 6:1">◄</a> Acts 6:2 <a href="/acts/6-3.htm" title="Acts 6:3">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/acts/6.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/acts/6.htm">New International Version</a> So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, &#8220It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. <a href="/nlt/acts/6.htm">New Living Translation</a> So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. <a href="/esv/acts/6.htm">English Standard Version</a> And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. <a href="/bsb/acts/6.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/blb/acts/6.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> So the Twelve, having called near the multitude of the disciples, said, "It is not desirable for us, having neglected the word of God, to attend tables. <a href="/kjv/acts/6.htm">King James Bible</a> Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. <a href="/nkjv/acts/6.htm">New King James Version</a> Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. <a href="/nasb_/acts/6.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nasb/acts/6.htm">NASB 1995</a> So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, &#8220It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. <a href="/nasb77/acts/6.htm">NASB 1977 </a> And 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. <a href="/lsb/acts/6.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not pleasing to God for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. <a href="/amp/acts/6.htm">Amplified Bible</a> So the Twelve called the disciples together and said, “It is not appropriate for us to neglect [teaching] the word of God in order to serve tables and manage the distribution of food. <a href="/csb/acts/6.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> The Twelve summoned the whole company of the disciples and said, “It would not be right for us to give up preaching the word of God to wait on tables. <a href="/hcsb/acts/6.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Then the Twelve summoned the whole company of the disciples and said, &#8220It would not be right for us to give up preaching about God to handle financial matters. <a href="/asv/acts/6.htm">American Standard Version</a> And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables. <a href="/cev/acts/6.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The twelve apostles called the whole group of followers together and said, "We should not give up preaching God's message in order to serve at tables. <a href="/erv/acts/6.htm">English Revised Version</a> And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables. <a href="/gwt/acts/6.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The twelve apostles called all the disciples together and told them, "It's not right for us to give up God's word in order to distribute food. <a href="/gnt/acts/6.htm">Good News Translation</a> So the twelve apostles called the whole group of believers together and said, "It is not right for us to neglect the preaching of God's word in order to handle finances. <a href="/isv/acts/6.htm">International Standard Version</a> So the Twelve called the whole group of disciples together and said, "It is not desirable for us to neglect messages from God in order to wait on tables. <a href="/msb/acts/6.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/net/acts/6.htm">NET Bible</a> So the twelve called the whole group of the disciples together and said, "It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to wait on tables. <a href="/nheb/acts/6.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> So the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, "It is not appropriate for us to forsake the word of God and serve tables. <a href="/wbt/acts/6.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. <a href="/wey/acts/6.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> So the Twelve called together the general body of the disciples and said, "It does not seem fitting that we Apostles should neglect the delivery of God's Message and minister at tables. <a href="/web/acts/6.htm">World English Bible</a> The twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not appropriate for us to forsake the word of God and serve tables. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/acts/6.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and the Twelve, having called near the multitude of the disciples, said, “It is not pleasing that we, having left the word of God, minister at tables; <a href="/blb/acts/6.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> So the Twelve, having called near the multitude of the disciples, said, "It is not desirable for us, having neglected the word of God, to attend tables. <a href="/ylt/acts/6.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and the twelve, having called near the multitude of the disciples, said, 'It is not pleasing that we, having left the word of God, do minister at tables; <a href="/slt/acts/6.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And the twelve having called the multitude of the disciples, said, It is not pleasing for us, having left the word of God, to serve tables.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/acts/6.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Then the twelve calling together the multitude of the disciples, said: It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. <a href="/cpdv/acts/6.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And so the twelve, calling together the multitude of the disciples, said: “It is not fair for us to leave behind the Word of God to serve at tables also. <a href="/nabre/acts/6.htm">New American Bible</a> So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. <a href="/nrsvce/acts/6.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> And the twelve called together the whole community of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/acts/6.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> So the twelve apostles called the whole multitude of the converts and said to them, It is not good that we should leave the word of God and serve food. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/acts/6.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> And the twelve Apostles called the whole assembly of the disciples and they said to them, “It is not acceptable for us to forsake the word of God and to serve tables.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/acts/6.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to them, and said: It is not right that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. <a href="/godbey/acts/6.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And the twelve calling to them the multitude of the disciples, said, It is not pleasing that we, leaving the word of God, serve tables. <a href="/haweis/acts/6.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Then the twelve assembling the multitude of the disciples, said, It is not fit that we should leave the word of God, to make distribution to the tables. <a href="/mace/acts/6.htm">Mace New Testament</a> the twelve therefore assembled all the disciples, and said, it is not fit that we should leave the word of God, to mind what relates to your meals. <a href="/wey/acts/6.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> So the Twelve called together the general body of the disciples and said, "It does not seem fitting that we Apostles should neglect the delivery of God's Message and minister at tables. <a href="/worrell/acts/6.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And the twelve, having called the multitude of the disciples to them, said, "It is not proper that we, leaving the word of God, should serve tables; <a href="/worsley/acts/6.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> So the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to them and said, It is not seemly that we should leave the word of God and attend at tables. <a href="/parallel/acts/6-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/in5WTRQ9BSQ?start=1631" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/acts/6.htm">The Choosing of the Seven</a> 1In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">So</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/1427.htm" title="1427: dōdeka (Adj-NMP) -- Twelve; the usual way in which the Twelve apostles of Jesus are referred to. From duo and deka; two and ten, i.e. A dozen.">Twelve</a> <a href="/greek/4341.htm" title="4341: Proskalesamenoi (V-APM-NMP) -- To call to myself, summon. Middle voice from pros and kaleo; to call toward oneself, i.e. Summon, invite.">summoned</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4128.htm" title="4128: plēthos (N-ANS) -- A multitude, crowd, great number, assemblage. From pletho; a fulness, i.e. A large number, throng, populace.">all</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3101.htm" title="3101: mathētōn (N-GMP) -- A learner, disciple, pupil. From manthano; a learner, i.e. Pupil.">disciples</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipan (V-AIA-3P) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">and said,</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">“It is</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: Ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/701.htm" title="701: areston (Adj-NNS) -- Pleasing, satisfactory, acceptable. From aresko; agreeable; by implication, fit.">unacceptable</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmas (PPro-A1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">for us</a> <a href="/greek/2641.htm" title="2641: kataleipsantas (V-APA-AMP) -- From kata and leipo; to leave down, i.e. Behind; by implication, to abandon, have remaining.">to neglect</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logon (N-AMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">word</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God</a> <a href="/greek/1247.htm" title="1247: diakonein (V-PNA) -- From diakonos; to be an attendant, i.e. Wait upon (figuratively) teacher; technically, to act as a Christian deacon.">in order to wait on</a> <a href="/greek/5132.htm" title="5132: trapezais (N-DFP) -- Probably contracted from tessares and peze; a table or stool, usually for food; also a counter for money.">tables.</a> 3Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/exodus/18-17.htm">Exodus 18:17-26</a> But Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good. / Surely you and these people with you will wear yourselves out, because the task is too heavy for you. You cannot handle it alone. / Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their causes to Him. ... <a href="/numbers/11-14.htm">Numbers 11:14-17</a> I cannot carry all these people by myself; it is too burdensome for me. / If this is how You are going to treat me, please kill me right now—if I have found favor in Your eyes—and let me not see my own wretchedness.” / Then the LORD said to Moses, “Bring Me seventy of the elders of Israel known to you as leaders and officers of the people. Bring them to the Tent of Meeting and have them stand there with you. ... <a href="/1_timothy/3-8.htm">1 Timothy 3:8-13</a> Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued or given to much wine or greedy for money. / They must hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. / Additionally, they must first be tested. Then, if they are above reproach, let them serve as deacons. ... <a href="/1_corinthians/12-28.htm">1 Corinthians 12:28</a> And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues. <a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">1 Peter 4:10-11</a> As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another. / If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. <a href="/romans/12-6.htm">Romans 12:6-8</a> We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; / if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; / if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. <a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11-12</a> And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, / to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, <a href="/1_corinthians/7-17.htm">1 Corinthians 7:17</a> Regardless, each one should lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him and to which God has called him. This is what I prescribe in all the churches. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-14.htm">1 Corinthians 9:14</a> In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. <a href="/1_timothy/5-17.htm">1 Timothy 5:17</a> Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. <a href="/2_timothy/2-2.htm">2 Timothy 2:2</a> And the things that you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others as well. <a href="/luke/10-40.htm">Luke 10:40-42</a> But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!” / “Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things. / But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.” <a href="/mark/3-14.htm">Mark 3:14</a> He appointed twelve of them, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach, <a href="/matthew/20-26.htm">Matthew 20:26-28</a> It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, / and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave— / just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” <a href="/john/21-15.htm">John 21:15-17</a> When they had finished eating, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love Me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus replied, “Feed My lambs.” / Jesus asked a second time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” “Yes, Lord,” he answered, “You know I love You.” Jesus told him, “Shepherd My sheep.” / Jesus asked a third time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was deeply hurt that Jesus had asked him a third time, “Do you love Me?” “Lord, You know all things,” he replied. “You know I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.the twelve.<a href="/acts/21-22.htm">Acts 21:22</a> What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.It.<a href="/acts/4-19.htm">Acts 4:19</a> But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.<a href="/acts/25-27.htm">Acts 25:27</a> For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.we should.<a href="/exodus/18-17.htm">Exodus 18:17-26</a> And Moses' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good… <a href="/numbers/11-11.htm">Numbers 11:11-13</a> And Moses said unto the LORD, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me? … <a href="/deuteronomy/1-9.htm">Deuteronomy 1:9-14</a> And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone: … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/acts/5-41.htm">Apostles</a> <a href="/luke/15-32.htm">Appropriate</a> <a href="/acts/5-36.htm">Body</a> <a href="/acts/4-32.htm">Congregation</a> <a href="/isaiah/66-9.htm">Delivery</a> <a href="/nahum/2-9.htm">Desirable</a> <a href="/acts/6-1.htm">Disciples</a> <a href="/acts/6-1.htm">Distribution</a> <a href="/luke/15-32.htm">Fitting</a> <a href="/acts/2-46.htm">Food</a> <a href="/mark/15-34.htm">Forsake</a> <a href="/acts/5-16.htm">Gathered</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/27-34.htm">General</a> <a href="/acts/4-31.htm">God's</a> <a href="/acts/5-38.htm">Leave</a> <a href="/acts/5-20.htm">Message</a> <a href="/acts/1-25.htm">Ministry</a> <a href="/acts/5-16.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/mark/7-8.htm">Neglect</a> <a href="/acts/5-15.htm">Order</a> <a href="/acts/5-42.htm">Preaching</a> <a href="/acts/2-36.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/acts/5-42.htm">Right</a> <a href="/john/6-62.htm">Seem</a> <a href="/john/12-26.htm">Serve</a> <a href="/acts/4-18.htm">Summoned</a> <a href="/john/2-15.htm">Tables</a> <a href="/acts/5-21.htm">Together</a> <a href="/john/20-24.htm">Twelve</a> <a href="/acts/5-25.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/acts/6-6.htm">Apostles</a> <a href="/acts/26-20.htm">Appropriate</a> <a href="/acts/7-57.htm">Body</a> <a href="/acts/7-38.htm">Congregation</a> <a href="/acts/6-4.htm">Delivery</a> <a href="/acts/20-16.htm">Desirable</a> <a href="/acts/6-7.htm">Disciples</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-13.htm">Distribution</a> <a href="/romans/1-28.htm">Fitting</a> <a href="/acts/7-11.htm">Food</a> <a href="/acts/21-21.htm">Forsake</a> <a href="/acts/10-27.htm">Gathered</a> <a href="/acts/6-5.htm">General</a> <a href="/acts/6-7.htm">God's</a> <a href="/acts/7-3.htm">Leave</a> <a href="/acts/6-4.htm">Message</a> <a href="/acts/6-4.htm">Ministry</a> <a href="/acts/6-5.htm">Multitude</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-14.htm">Neglect</a> <a href="/acts/7-43.htm">Order</a> <a href="/acts/8-4.htm">Preaching</a> <a href="/acts/10-21.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/acts/7-55.htm">Right</a> <a href="/acts/13-25.htm">Seem</a> <a href="/acts/7-6.htm">Serve</a> <a href="/acts/7-14.htm">Summoned</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-3.htm">Tables</a> <a href="/acts/6-9.htm">Together</a> <a href="/acts/7-8.htm">Twelve</a> <a href="/acts/6-4.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Acts 6</div>1. <a href="/acts/6-1.htm">The apostles, desirous to have the poor cared for, </a> 2. <a href="/acts/6-2.htm">as also careful themselves to dispense the word of God, the food of the soul,</a> 3. <a href="/acts/6-3.htm">recommend,</a> 5. <a href="/acts/6-5.htm">and with the church's consent ordain seven chosen men to the office of deaconship.</a> 7. <a href="/acts/6-7.htm">The word of God prevails,</a> 8. <a href="/acts/6-8.htm">Stephen, full of faith and the Holy Spirit, confuting those with whom he disputed, </a> 12. <a href="/acts/6-12.htm">is brought before the council, </a> 13. <a href="/acts/6-13.htm">and falsely accused of blasphemy against the law and the temple.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/6.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/acts/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/acts/6.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>So the Twelve summoned all the disciples The "Twelve" refers to the apostles, the foundational leaders of the early Church, chosen by Jesus Christ. This gathering of disciples indicates a significant moment in the early Church, highlighting the importance of communal decision-making. The apostles' leadership role is emphasized, showing their responsibility in guiding the Church. This event takes place in Jerusalem, the center of early Christian activity, where the Church was rapidly growing. The summoning of all disciples suggests a large and diverse group, reflecting the expanding nature of the early Christian community.and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God The "word of God" here refers to the teachings of Jesus and the message of the Gospel. The apostles prioritize their primary mission of preaching and teaching, which is central to the Great Commission (<a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19-20</a>). This phrase underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and the dissemination of the Gospel as the core mission of the Church. The apostles recognize that their calling is to focus on spiritual matters, ensuring that the message of salvation is not compromised or overshadowed by other duties.in order to wait on tables. "Wait on tables" refers to the practical service of distributing food and resources, likely to the widows and needy within the community, as mentioned earlier in <a href="/acts/6.htm">Acts 6:1</a>. This phrase highlights the practical needs of the early Church and the necessity of organizing community care. The apostles' decision to delegate this responsibility leads to the appointment of the first deacons, as seen in the subsequent verses. This division of labor allows the apostles to maintain their focus on spiritual leadership while ensuring that the physical needs of the community are met, reflecting the body of Christ's diverse functions (<a href="/1_corinthians/12-4.htm">1 Corinthians 12:4-31</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_twelve_apostles.htm">The Twelve Apostles</a> The primary leaders of the early church, responsible for teaching and spreading the message of Jesus Christ. They are addressing a practical issue within the church community. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_disciples.htm">The Disciples</a> Refers to the broader group of believers in the early church who were following the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_early_church.htm">The Early Church</a> The community of believers in Jerusalem, experiencing rapid growth and facing logistical challenges in caring for its members. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_hellenistic_jews.htm">The Hellenistic Jews</a> Greek-speaking Jews who were part of the early church and felt their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_daily_distribution.htm">The Daily Distribution</a> A system set up by the early church to provide for the needs of its members, particularly widows and those in need.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/p/prioritizing_spiritual_responsibilities.htm">Prioritizing Spiritual Responsibilities</a> The apostles recognized the importance of focusing on their primary calling to preach and teach the Word of God. This highlights the need for leaders to prioritize spiritual responsibilities over administrative tasks. <a href="/topical/d/delegation_and_empowerment.htm">Delegation and Empowerment</a> The decision to appoint others to handle practical matters demonstrates the importance of delegation and empowering others within the church to use their gifts for service. <a href="/topical/a/addressing_community_needs.htm">Addressing Community Needs</a> The early church's response to the needs of its members shows the importance of being attentive and responsive to the practical needs within a faith community. <a href="/topical/u/unity_and_fairness.htm">Unity and Fairness</a> The apostles' action to address the complaint of the Hellenistic Jews underscores the need for fairness and unity in the church, ensuring that all members are cared for equitably. <a href="/topical/r/role_of_service_in_ministry.htm">Role of Service in Ministry</a> Serving others, even in practical ways, is a vital part of ministry and reflects the heart of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_acts_6.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Acts 6</a> <a href="/q/what's_functional_equivalence_translation.htm">Why did Jesus select Judas Iscariot as a disciple?</a> <a href="/q/how_is_a_disciple_different_from_an_apostle.htm">What distinguishes a disciple from an apostle?</a> <a href="/q/what_do_deacons_do_in_church.htm">What are deacons' responsibilities in the church?</a> <a href="/q/who_was_prochorus_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Prochorus in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/acts/6.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples.--The Apostles meet the crisis with singular tact and moderation. They do not resent the suspicion; they are not careful to vindicate themselves against it. They remembered, it may be, the precedent presented by the life of Moses (<a href="/exodus/18-25.htm" title="And Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens.">Exodus 18:25</a>), and they act, as he had acted, by delegating part of their authority to others. The collective action of the multitude is strikingly in harmony with the Greek ideas attached to the word Ecclesia, as the assembly in which every citizen might take his share. Representative government might come as a necessity of later times; as yet, every member of the congregation, every citizen of the new polity, was invited, as having a right to vote.It is not reason.--Literally, It is not pleasing, as in <a href="/acts/12-3.htm" title="And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)">Acts 12:3</a>. The word implies that they had undertaken a burdensome duty, not for their own pleasure, because they liked it, but for the good of the community.And serve tables.--The word was used for the "tables" of money-changers, as in <a href="/matthew/21-12.htm" title="And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves,">Matthew 21:12</a>, <a href="/john/2-15.htm" title="And when he had made a whip of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables;">John 2:15</a>, and was, therefore, equally appropriate whether we think of the relief as being given in money or in kind.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/acts/6.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - And for then, A.V.; fit for reasons, A.V.; forsake for leave, A.V. It is not fit; literally, pleasing; ἀρεστόν is often the rendering of טוב in the LXX.; e.g. Gem 16:6; <a href="/deuteronomy/12-28.htm">Deuteronomy 12:28</a>. In <a href="/exodus/15-26.htm">Exodus 15:26</a>, <a href="/deuteronomy/6-18.htm">Deuteronomy 6:18</a>, etc., it stands for יָשָׁר, that which is right. Serve tables. The English reader should remember that the "ministration" of ver. 1, the "serve" of this verse, and the "deacon" which was the name of the new officers, are all forms of the same Greek word (διακονία διακονεῖν διάκονος). In ver. 4 "the ministry of the Word" is opposed to "the daily ministration" of meat. The passage gives a necessary warning to the ministers of God's Word not to spend too much time and strength upon any secular work, even though it be a work of charity. They must give themselves to the Word of God and to prayer. There are Christian laity to serve tables. <a href="/commentaries/acts/6-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>So δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. the οἱ (hoi) Article - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. Twelve δώδεκα (dōdeka) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1427.htm">Strong's 1427: </a> Twelve; the usual way in which the Twelve apostles of Jesus are referred to. From duo and deka; two and ten, i.e. A dozen. summoned Προσκαλεσάμενοι (Proskalesamenoi) Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4341.htm">Strong's 4341: </a> To call to myself, summon. Middle voice from pros and kaleo; to call toward oneself, i.e. Summon, invite. all πλῆθος (plēthos) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4128.htm">Strong's 4128: </a> A multitude, crowd, great number, assemblage. From pletho; a fulness, i.e. A large number, throng, populace. the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. disciples μαθητῶν (mathētōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3101.htm">Strong's 3101: </a> A learner, disciple, pupil. From manthano; a learner, i.e. Pupil. [and] said, εἶπαν (eipan) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. “It is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. unacceptable ἀρεστόν (areston) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_701.htm">Strong's 701: </a> Pleasing, satisfactory, acceptable. From aresko; agreeable; by implication, fit. [for] us ἡμᾶς (hēmas) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. to neglect καταλείψαντας (kataleipsantas) Verb - Aorist Participle Active - Accusative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2641.htm">Strong's 2641: </a> From kata and leipo; to leave down, i.e. Behind; by implication, to abandon, have remaining. the τὸν (ton) Article - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. word λόγον (logon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. [in order] to wait on διακονεῖν (diakonein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1247.htm">Strong's 1247: </a> From diakonos; to be an attendant, i.e. Wait upon (figuratively) teacher; technically, to act as a Christian deacon. tables. τραπέζαις (trapezais) Noun - Dative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5132.htm">Strong's 5132: </a> Probably contracted from tessares and peze; a table or stool, usually for food; also a counter for money. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/acts/6-2.htm">Acts 6:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/acts/6-2.htm">NT Apostles: Acts 6:2 The twelve summoned the multitude (Acts of the Apostles Ac) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/acts/6-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Acts 6:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Acts 6:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/acts/6-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Acts 6:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Acts 6:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>