Humble Structures, Fruitful Mission

Movements often begin with unstoppable passion, but without intentional leadership and healthy structure, even the most compelling cause will eventually fizzle out. In Acts 6, we see how the early church navigated the complexity of rapid growth by building humble, diverse servant leadership to support the flourishing of the gospel. Rather than settling for a purely inward-focused community or a solely outward-focused mission, we are challenged to become a Jesus-focused people where community and mission are entirely inseparable. 

Acts 6:1-7

Seven Chosen to Serve

6 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. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.

7 And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.

For Adult Homes and Groups

1. Read Acts 6:1-7 together and take time to listen/watch the Faith Greenhouse Podcast episode, “Life Groups - Where it Started.” 

2. How can we confuse being busy or passionate with producing lasting Gospel fruit? How can we make sure we’re serving Jesus’ mission rather than simply seeking a feeling?

3. Acts 6 shows that God’s mission can bring tension and complexity. How should this shape the way we respond to conflict within our own church community?

4. How do community and mission fuel each other? How does healthy, loving community inside our group make Jesus attractive to outsiders?

5. Do you see yourself as simply receiving ministry or as someone God can use to serve others? What is one step you feel called to take? Share it, pray about it together, and encourage one another to take that step.

For Families with Kids

1. Read Acts 6:1–7. The early church learned that everyone has a part to play. What is one way you can serve our church family this week?

2. It’s easy for a church to get distracted, but our main goal is always to follow Jesus. How can we help each other stay focused on Him?

3. We shouldn’t only invite people to church; we should also share Jesus’ love wherever we live, work, learn, and play. This week, how can our family love one another at home and also share Jesus’ love with a neighbor, classmate, or teammate?

4. Pray the Lord’s Prayer together out loud.