Act 6:1-3 | JFB | STEP | 1. the Grecians —the Greek-speaking Jews, mostly born in the provinces. the Hebrews —those Jews born in Palestine who used their native tongue, and were wont to look down on the "Grecians" as an inferior class. were neglected —"overlooked" by those whom the apostles employed, and who were probably of the Hebrew class, as being the most numerous. The complaint was in all likelihood well founded, though we cannot suspect the distributors of intentional partiality. "It was really just an emulation of love, each party wishing to have their own poor taken care of in the best manner" [OLSHAUSEN ]. the daily ministration —the daily distribution of alms or of food, probably the latter.

Acts 6:1-3

1. the Grecians—the Greek-speaking Jews, mostly born in the provinces.

the Hebrews—those Jews born in Palestine who used their native tongue, and were wont to look down on the "Grecians" as an inferior class.

were neglected—"overlooked" by those whom the apostles employed, and who were probably of the Hebrew class, as being the most numerous. The complaint was in all likelihood well founded, though we cannot suspect the distributors of intentional partiality. "It was really just an emulation of love, each party wishing to have their own poor taken care of in the best manner" [OLSHAUSEN].

the daily ministration—the daily distribution of alms or of food, probably the latter.

2-4. the multitude—the general body of the disciples.

It is not reason—The word expresses dislike; that is "We cannot submit."

to leave the word of God—to have our time and attention withdrawn from preaching; which, it thus appears, they regarded as their primary duty.

to serve tables—oversee the distribution of provisions.

3. look ye out among you—that is, ye, "the multitude," from among yourselves.

seven men of honest report—good reputation (Ac 10:22; 1Ti 3:7).

full of the Holy Ghost—not full of miraculous gifts, which would have been no qualification for the duties required, but spiritually gifted (although on two of them miraculous power did rest).

and wisdom—discretion, aptitude for practical business.

whom we may appoint—for while the election was vested in the Christian people, the appointment lay with the apostles, as spiritual rulers.