Serving Tables

2010-07-05

In Acts 6-7, there is an interesting account of seven men who are called to serve widows. There allegedly were some widows who were neglected, and seven men were appointed to make sure all needs were distributed fairly. These men had to be of sound reputation and full of wisdom and the Holy Spirit. One would think this is unusual to serve tables. But it is necessary, because serving without partiality requires a firm reliance on the Lord. Note in 6:7 that the election of these men resulted in the salvation of many, including many in the priesthood.

At this point, Luke takes a closer examination of one of these men: Stephen. This man, who we might otherwise think was appointed to a lowly position, did signs and wonders among the people. His wisdom and power in the Spirit brought the attention of this Jewish group known as the Synagogue of the Libertines. This confrontation brought Stephen before the high priest, being falsely accused of many things.

Stephen had the chance to speak at length. There are a few themes, but one very noteworthy motif is the concept of the rejected Savior. Since Stephen was showing them that Jesus is indeed the Messiah, he draws from Jewish history to illustrate. One example is Joseph, who was initially rejected by his brothers. But God indeed raised Joseph up to provide food for much of the Near East during years of famine. His brothers then are provided for by his hand.

Another man is Moses. The two Israelites who fought rejected Moses, citing his killing of the Egyptian, causing him to be on the run 40 years. But indeed Moses led the whole nation out of Egypt and became a savior. Moses was rejected by Israel repeatedly throughout their sojourning. Jesus was likewise rejected, and he is coming again.

The lesson of the seven is this: those of “lowly” position are an integral part of the church, and require wisdom and the Holy Spirit. If we desire to be great, we must have the heart of Christ, who humbled himself from the highest heavens to the lowest stable. Also, as in the case of Stephen, we ought to expect rejection. When we associate with Christ, to be his follower is to be rejected by the world, even the institutionalized religious elite. Remember that humility and rejection is that path that Christ walked.