THE TWO SIDES TO MINISTRY
ACTS 6:1-4 NKJV
6 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. 2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. 3 Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit 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."
For many people, they assume ministry only takes place in the church on Sundays. But there is a great amount of ministry that takes place during the week. There are two sides to ministry.
In the early church, part of the business side of ministry was in food distribution. The church was taking care of the widows with daily food. There was no government aid or local food banks at this point.
But as is not untypical, there were logistical problems, and some of the widows were being skipped. And these widows happened to be former Greeks who had converted to Judaism and later received Christ. So, there were complaints. This is the first time we see complaints in the church, but it most definitely will not be the last time.
The apostles made a leadership decision. They would give themselves to the teaching, preaching, and study of God's word and to prayer.
The business side of food distribution was to be delegated to seven men. Notice the three qualifications for handling the business side of the church - men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. Nothing was said about having money or being successful in prior business ventures. Nothing wrong with either of those qualifications, but that's not what God inspired the leaders to specify.
With the preachers attending to God's word and prayer and seven godly men handling the business side, the church was blessed. Verse seven notes that the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly.
APPLICATION:
There are still two sides to ministry today, and both are important. It's like having a bicycle. You want air in both tires, or you will not be making much progress.
We want people who can give themselves to God's word and prayer. And we need people to handle the business side.
We are blessed at The Ark to have quality people and volunteers on both sides of the ministry. God's kingdom deserves our best, and with both sides doing their best, the word of God will spread, and the number of Christ-followers will multiply.