September 22, 2023 - Acts 6-7

“Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution” (6:1). A reminder that, even in the church, life in a fallen world is not a perfect utopia. Also, a reminder that, even as saints, we struggle with personal issues and relationships. But God provided for the church at Jerusalem deacons who would meet the needs of the Hellenist widows. And the people of the church were one.

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord

And we pray that our unity will one day be restored

And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love

Yeah they'll know we are Christians by our love. -- Peter Scholtes (1966)

Interesting. When brought before the authorities and asked if the charges of blasphemy against him were true, Stephen did not answer “Yes” or “No.” Rather, he told the biblical story, retracing the timeline of God’s mighty works from Abraham to the Messiah. Of course, he also pointed out that his accusers had rejected God and spurned all his prophets. And though stoned by his accusers, he pleaded with God to forgive them. And all the while, standing close by and approving all this was Saul. What bold faithfulness! Thinking about the faithful preachers of Acts, we should pray the lyrics of William Cowper’s hymn:

Lord, we are few, but you are near;

nor short your arm, nor deaf your ear;

O rend the heav’ns, come quickly down,

and make a thousand hearts your own. -- William Cowper (1769)