Unstoppable! 'All People Matter' — Acts 6:5

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Everyone liked this idea [of appointing spiritually wise men to oversee the food distribution], and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith).
— Acts 6:5 NLT

Key Thought

One thing you and I can miss in this list is a crucial insight into solving the problems the early disciples were facing. In taking care of Greek-speaking widows (Acts 6:1-3), the people chose men who had Greek names. The men chosen to help were Greek-speaking Jews and one was a Gentile convert to Judaism and was from a Greek-speaking background. To solve a problem, why not involve the folks who can best understand the issues and prevent unnecessary roadblocks and misunderstandings? This wise decision to do so pleased everyone, both Hebrew-speaking and Greek-speaking disciples. Keeping the church unified and caring for needy people can be done when godly leaders and the Holy Spirit lead the way in solving the problems!

Today's Prayer

O precious Father, help us as your children. Unify us. We want to be one in spirit and purpose to empower us to live out your mission. We need the Holy Spirit to help us tear down barriers, come up with solutions, and guide our leaders so that we can demonstrate to the world the unity and love that helps them see Jesus. We ask this for the sake of Jesus and the lost people who need to know him and his saving grace. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • John 13:34-35, 17:20-26
  • Ephesians 2:14-22, 4:1-6

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 6:5 NLT — Everyone liked this idea [of appointing spiritually wise men to oversee the food distribution], and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith).

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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