v1-2: A problem; an increasing number of disciples, and many are being help, in a "daily distribution of food." But the large numbers mean that some are neglected, especially the Grecian Jews; here is a dispute following background and culture.

E M Blaiklock comments that "an expanding society demanded organisation." (commentary on Acts)

The apostles are committed to the greater work of prayer and the ministry of the word, and cannot cease that priority.

v3-4: The need for spiritual men, chosen from among the brethren, men who have already proved themselves (1 Tim 3.10). There is no room for personal ambition, nor scheming to gain prestige.

Thus, different men are committed to different ministries. Such does not demean any, but gives proper honour and dignity where God has gifted.

Western culture tends to make individuals and families act independently. This contrasts with the context here that financial well-being was the concern of the local church. 'Evangelical theology developed in bourgeois capitalist societies. One result of this was that the individualistic attitude which began to be seen in society also entered the church.' (Fiodor Mocan, Christian from former Soviet Union).

There is a further consideration here. The majority in the Church in Jerusalem were Jews, not Greeks. It was the majority that took it upon themselves to serve the minority. Or the strong that took responsibility to bless the weak (Rom 15.1).  Contemporary culture misses this important emphasis. For example, following the murder of George Floyd by a white policeman, some suggested that blacks should behave better so as to be listened to by whites. And, in the UK, following the murder of Sarah Everard, that women should have a mobile phone app to monitor their whereabouts; no such suggestion for men! Both examples are the wrong way around!

v5: The seven include Stephen, who seems, even here, to stand out in his character.

v6: The seven are appointed by the apostles; set apart and commended to their ministry; this is sealed by the laying on of hands.

v7: This new development is consistent with a growing church; there are now thousands of people in the church.

Questions arise in our minds; Did they all meet together? Regularly or infrequently? Was fellowship and teaching mainly in small, home-based groups? How did the church handle the influx of priests?

v8: Stephen was called to one ministry, and becomes involved in another. Stephen is already recognised as a godly man, and is given opportunity to serve, and thus his ministry develops.

v9-10: As elsewhere, Stephen meets opposition from Jewish people. He manifests power in his ministry, prevailing over unbelievers, Luke 21.15.

v11-14: Since they can find no fault in Stephen, they bring a false accusation against him. Like Jesus, Stephen is brought before the Sanhedrin. Persecution may be cruel and unkind, but surely that is what we must expect.

There are two linked accusations against Stephen, each repeated. It was alleged that Stephen spoke against:

- this holy place, ie: the temple; and

- the customs of Moses, ie: the law.

Stephen's response in chapter 7 addresses these two allegations.

• Stephen reviewed several OT incidents, showing that God is not limited nor restricted to any geographical location. Any place becomes His ‘holy place.’
• God proved His faithfulness outside of any ‘holy place.’ Stephen’s audience would have understood this – that’s why they stoned him to death.
• God is present where His people are, however foreign & hostile the situation. The foreign & hostile place becomes the holy place. That is because God is there.

v15: No one can deny that there is something different about this man's character.

'in other words, it was the very opposite of a dejected, frightened look. Stephen was showing forth an inner strength in the face of terrible opposition and false accusations, which was visible in the glow and certainty of his eyes and face. It was the reality of the fulfillment of God's strength in his weakness.' (Affliction, by Edith Schaeffer.)