The Word of God Prospered

1-4 During this time, as the disciples were increasing in numbers by leaps and bounds, hard feelings developed among the Greek-speaking believers—“Hellenists”—toward the Hebrew-speaking believers because their widows were being discriminated against in the daily food lines. So the Twelve called a meeting of the disciples. They said, “It wouldn’t be right for us to abandon our responsibilities for preaching and teaching the Word of God to help with the care of the poor. So, friends, choose seven men from among you whom everyone trusts, men full of the Holy Spirit and good sense, and we’ll assign them this task. Meanwhile, we’ll stick to our assigned tasks of prayer and speaking God’s Word.”

5-6 The congregation thought this was a great idea. They went ahead and chose—

Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit,

Philip,

Procorus,

Nicanor,

Timon,

Parmenas,

Nicolas, a convert from Antioch.

Then they presented them to the apostles. Praying, the apostles laid on hands and commissioned them for their task.

The Word of God prospered. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased dramatically. Not least, a great many priests submitted themselves to the faith.

* * *

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Black
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Black
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.99
Save: $1.00 (13%)
2.0 of 5.0 stars
The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year - eBook
The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year - eBook
Retail: $18.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $9.00 (47%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message The Book of Psalms
The Message The Book of Psalms
Retail: $8.99
Our Price: $5.79
Save: $3.20 (36%)
The Message: Solo - An Uncommon Devotional
The Message: Solo - An Uncommon Devotional
Retail: $19.99
Our Price: $12.92
Save: $7.07 (35%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars