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There arose a complaint - Acts 6
There arose a complaint - Acts 6
Acts 6:1 — "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."
This whole affair started off from love and generosity of the group towards each other. They sold their goods and distributed them as any had need. Such would cement the relationship of these people together. Still, they developed a problem.
There were two differing social groups here although both were Jewish in nationality. Some were very traditionalists about their 'Jewishness' and held to traditional clothing, food, language, etc. Others had adopted the Greek influence and were here called 'Hellenists' (Greeks in KJV). Such cultural choices can get under people's skin!
This isn't about doctrine and faithfulness unto the Lord. No one appears to be accused of false teaching or immoral conduct. There were no inspired rules or concepts being broken. Yet, they began bickering and having hard feelings towards each other. This will destroy the local church.
They solved it in an interesting way. The 'Hellenists' (Greek) complained about being overlooked. The group did the choosing, and they chose men, all of whom had 'Greek' names.
Most groups would NOT do this for fear of reprisal. Yet such an action of trust went far in this situation. Knowing how it had hurt and caused problems, they were fair in their administration of things. This IS how it should be.
By this shall the world know you are disciples, if you love one another (John 15:17; cp 13:34, 15:12). We are instructed to have the mind of Christ – putting the other's well being ahead of our own (Phil. 2:5f). We are to live "in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:1-3). We are warned about such division as it will cause us to 'bite and devour one another' (Gal. 5:15).
We see such problems arise as people with differing ideas, backgrounds, and experiences try to live together as the Lord's people. Sometimes it is the problem of social economic status where the rich refuse to associate with the poor (cp. James 2). Sometimes it is those who are new against those who have been around for a while. 'They' don't respect the 'traditional' and 'they' are stuck in their ways – both charges get bantered about. We still face problems over racial divides. Brethren all over the world have the same basic problem with this even though the various races involved are different. Perhaps you can add to this list.
By solving this and abiding together in unity, love, and support, "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" (Acts 6:7).
Brethren, a divided church will not grow. Let us learn to love one another with a pure heart, fervently (1Pet. 1:22).
Hugh DeLong
