Introductory Thoughts
As is common with church growth, problems arose very early in the church at Jerusalem. Acts chapter 6 tells us of the Grecians who began to murmur against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected (Acts 6:1). The apostles chose not to ignore the problem but to tackle it head on. Yet, they understood their primary responsibilities of not leaving their study of the word of God in order to focus on handling the strife. The apostles instructed the disciples in the church to choose seven men to deal with this particular issue and similar issues that might arise later (Acts 6:3). The Bible also points out that the apostles determined to give themselves “continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). They understood that their study and distribution of the word of God was to take the preeminence in their ministry.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): The Ethiopian eunuch in Acts chapter 8 was reading the book of Isaiah but did not understand what he read. Because Philip had studied the scriptures, he was able to explain to the eunuch what he was reading (Acts 8:30-35). Ezra is another example of someone who studied (Ezra 7:10) and helped others learn Gods word (Nehemiah 8:8). God wants us to learn His word so we too can help others.
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(For everyone): According to 2 Timothy 2:2, it seems as though everyone has some responsibility to teach others the word of God. What are some ways in which you could fulfil this ministry in the life of others?
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Who has the primary responsibility for teaching your family the word of God? Who is responsible for teaching new believers or those who might be weak in the faith? Are you willing to devote your time and strength to minister to them?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you a burden to minister Gods word to others.
- Ask God to help you to be diligent in studying His word..
Song
YE SERVANTS OF GOD, YOUR MASTER PROCLAIM
