CHAPTERS 6-7

SUMMARY

We learn in this passage that the Gospel doesn’t remove people-problems; however, it does provide solutions to them. The first communal problem that surfaces in the early Church is one of discrimination in food distribution among widows.

The Apostles call the church to select men of good reputation to serve the church and address the problem. The solution embroils one of these men, Stephen, in another people-problem; the church encounters opposition from outside.

The religious leaders opposing the Church arrest Stephen because of false allegations. Stephen responds by tracing their history, emphasizing their continued rejection of God’s authority over them. The primary accusation against Stephen is his alleged rejection of Moses and the law. They falsely accuse him of something of which they themselves are guilty. As Stephen points out, they are simply doing what their forefathers did by rejecting the God who liberated them from Egypt. And Stephen dies for it, but not before impacting a future Church leader.

Acts 22:20

(Have the Pod read the chapters together, taking turns in reading. After Reading reflect on the questions below?)

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

How do the Apostles address the problem of the widows? What does this teach about leaders and priorities?

Who chooses the seven men to serve, and what standards are expected of them? What does this process do for the church and teach about the Church?

When we are faced with opposition for our faith, what can we learn from Stephen’s example? Who likely recounted this story to Luke, and what was memorable about Stephen’s face?