The Choosing of the Seven

(1 Timothy 3:8–13)

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 vvv 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 Holy[fn] Spirit and wisdom. We will assign 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[fn] became obedient to the faith.

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