The Choosing of the Seven

(1 Timothy 3:8–13)

6 In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews [fn] because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.

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 appoint 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.[fn] 6 They presented these seven to the apostles,[fn] 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.