November 2, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 6
1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
2 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.
3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.
5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:
6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.
7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
9 Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
10 And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.
11 Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.
12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,
13 And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:
14 For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction:
Acts Chapter 6 describes two important events in the development of the early church: the selection of the seven deacons and the ministry of Stephen. As the community of believers grows, challenges arise in the daily provision for the widows, especially those from Greek-speaking circles. To address this task, the apostles choose seven trustworthy men to take on the care of the poor. Stephen, one of the seven, soon becomes involved in a conflict with the Jewish leadership due to his faith and wisdom, ultimately bringing him before the High Council.
Commentary:
This chapter highlights two central aspects of early Christianity: practical organization and the courage to stand up for the faith. The apostles recognize the necessity of structuring the distribution of tasks so they can focus on prayer and the proclamation of the Gospel. By selecting deacons like Stephen, they demonstrate the importance of a well-organized system led by spiritually and wisely gifted individuals. Stephen himself becomes a symbol of steadfastness in faith and extraordinary wisdom. His calm and angelic appearance before the High Council underscores the inner strength and conviction that distinguish him, even in the face of false accusations.
Summary:
In Acts Chapter 6, the early community makes a crucial decision regarding the administration of their social responsibilities by choosing seven deacons to oversee the provision for the poor. This structuring allows the apostles to concentrate on prayer and the dissemination of God’s Word. Stephen, one of these deacons, soon proves to be particularly charismatic and wise, performing miracles and boldly proclaiming his faith. However, his popularity and persuasive power lead him into conflict with some Jewish groups who accuse him of blasphemy and bring him before the High Council. There, Stephen remains calm and is perceived by his accusers as having an angelic face, reflecting his deep connection with God and foreshadowing the events to come.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 73—“Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled”
This chapter is based on John 13:31-38; John 14; John 15; John 16; John 17.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
Chapter 73 depicts the deep, moving words that Jesus gave to His disciples before His arrest and death. These sections of Scripture are particularly significant because Jesus prepares His disciples for the impending separation and encourages them not to despair despite the forthcoming difficulties. He emphasizes the necessity of faith in Him and in God and speaks about the importance of the Holy Spirit as a Comforter. The connection between the disciples and Jesus is highlighted as a vital component of the Christian faith, which remains relevant even today.
Commentary:
This chapter especially reveals the intimate relationship between Jesus and His disciples. Despite the sadness over His impending absence, Jesus strives to comfort them and provide them with a perspective of hope. He reveals the central significance of His sacrifice and emphasizes that His departure is not the end but the beginning of a new phase of their mission. The promise of the Holy Spirit shows that they will never be alone, even though He will no longer be physically with them. It is also interesting that Jesus highlights the importance of love and obedience. Love for God and for one another is emphasized as a sign of discipleship. This inner connection between love, faith, and obedience is a key to understanding and living out Christian discipleship.
Summary:
Chapter 73 describes the final moments that Jesus spent with His disciples before His arrest. He promises them that they will not remain alone but will receive the Holy Spirit as a Comforter. Jesus’ words emphasize the necessity of remaining in Him and obtaining eternal life through Him. Through the Holy Spirit, the disciples are empowered to continue Jesus’ work, accomplish greater things, and live in unity with one another. The chapter highlights the importance of faith, love, and obedience, which are necessary to remain connected to Christ. The message is timeless: even in difficult times, believers should trust in the Holy Spirit and be guided by the love and word of Christ.
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