In the early days of the church, growth brought with it complexity. As the number of disciples increased, so did the cultural diversity within the community. Greek-speaking Jews, part of the Jewish diaspora, began to join the largely Aramaic-speaking Jerusalem church. With that, a problem emerged—some widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. What began as a practical issue quickly became a spiritual test of unity, leadership, and love.
How did the apostles respond? Not by clinging tightly to control, nor by denying the problem. Instead, they recognised this moment as both a crisis and a calling. They called the community together and made a radical move: they delegated responsibility to others. Specifically, they selected seven men, all of whom bore Greek names, likely indicating they belonged to the very minority group that had been overlooked. The apostles didn’t just include them—they empowered them.
This was not mere logistics. It was theological. The apostles, tasked with prayer and the ministry of the Word, saw service—even waiting on tables—as essential to the flourishing of the church. There was no sense of superiority in their delegation. The chosen seven were to be “full of the Spirit and wisdom”—godly leaders in every sense.
One of them, Stephen, would soon preach one of the longest sermons recorded in the New Testament and become the first Christian martyr. His story reminds us that sometimes those doing behind-the-scenes ministry are the very ones God uses for front-line witness.
This story challenges how we view service, leadership, and inclusion in the Church. Do we make space for newcomers, outsiders, or people from different cultures? Are we open to change when growth demands it? Are we quick to release responsibility and trust others to lead, or do we guard roles as if they belong to us?
In our churches today, many similar challenges exist. Migration, multiculturalism, and generational differences bring both blessings and tension. We, too, must choose whether to resist change or respond with the gospel pattern: radical welcome, Spirit-filled empowerment, and a servant heart.
God's kingdom doesn’t run on titles but on faithful service. Whether we’re preaching, teaching, cooking, coordinating rotas, mentoring, praying, or cleaning up after others—all these tasks are sacred when done in love for Christ. The early church grew not only because of great sermons, but because every believer was mobilised to serve.
How might you respond this week?
LCM shares the gospel alongside the local church of London, equipping everyday Christians to lovingly bring a message of hope in Christ to those least likely to hear it.
Registered Charity No. 247186
