Structure That Sustains Growth

Acts 6:1-7 NLT - 1 But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, "We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word." 5 Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). 6 These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them. 7 So God's message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too.

1.    Growth Will Expose Needs

• Growth reveals what must be strengthened.

2.    Spiritual Leaders Must Protect Their Assignment

Act 6:2 NLT - 2 "We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program.

1Timothy 4:13 NIV - 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.

1Peter 4:10 ESV - 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:

3.    God Raises Up Other Leaders

Acts 6:3 NLT - 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility.

• The church grows when ministry is shared, not hoarded!

4.    Structure Protects Unity

• When People feel unseen or neglected, division grows.

5.    The Result of Healthy Structure was More Growth

Acts 6:7 NLT - So God’s message continued to spread.  The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted too.

• Structure did not hinder revival; it supported revival.