SCRIPTURE:
In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
Acts 6:1-7
OBSERVATION:
When reflecting on the impact of ministries, people often point to Evangelism––weekend, midweek, and special church services. In these services, people have an opportunity to hear the Word being preached, sing songs of worship, and say “Yes!” to Jesus through an altar call. While these services undoubtedly lead people to Christ, this is not the only way people come to know Jesus.
Here in Acts 6, we see the impact of Edification and Extension––ministries that focus on discipleship and community service. Because of the time, resources, and attention required, the disciples find themselves in a bind. They do not have the capacity to continue these important ministries. Therefore, they relinquish their responsibilities to focus on Evangelism, and they bring on seven more leaders to focus on Education and Extension. These seven focused on helping those in need, providing wise counsel, service to the community, and distributing food.
What was the result of these seven? It was threefold: the continued spread of the Gospel, an increase in the number of growing disciples, and the commitment of many to become priests in the church.
APPLICATION:
Here at New Hope, we divide our ministry into four fractals: Evangelism, Edification, Equipping, and Extension. While we reach many people with the Gospel through Evangelism, like the early church, we also see God changing many lives through Edification and Extension as well. As we continue to invest in these ministries, build leaders, and release dreams, we pray that God will use us like He did in the book of Acts. We pray that we see more people hearing the Word, more people growing in discipleship, and more leaders committing to serve God in full-time ministry.
Today, be reminded of the impact of Edification and Extension. God does not only reach people through preaching on the pulpit or singing on the stage; God reaches out to people through acts of mercy, love, and kindness. Those around you can receive a holy touch from Him as you reach out and lend a helping hand.
God is calling you to reach people through meeting tangible needs. As you go through your day, look for opportunities where God is inviting you to make a difference by meeting a physical need. Keep your eyes open to see whose lives He is actively working in, especially in hardship, so that you can join Him in His work and be the hands, feet, and heart of Jesus. And as you do, watch, wait, and see all God will do through you as you lend a helping hand.
PRAYER:
God,
Thank You for making a difference in my life. You have met my needs and blessed me beyond measure. Today, use me for your glory. Allow me to be your hands and feet to make a difference and meet a need. Open my eyes to see who You are leading me to help, and give me the courage and the heart to boldly follow through. May You be glorified for the difference You make through me.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
