Seven Helpers Are Chosen

As the number of disciples kept growing, a complaint arose among the believers. The Hellenists spoke against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily service.

The twelve called the whole group of disciples together. They said it was not right for them to leave the word of God in order to serve tables. Instead, they would continue steadfastly in prayer and in the ministry of the word.

So they told the believers to choose seven men from among them, men of good report, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. These men would be appointed over this work.

This plan pleased the whole multitude. They chose Stephen, who is especially described as full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, along with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte from Antioch.

They set these men before the apostles. After prayer, the apostles laid their hands on them. Then the word of God increased, the number of disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem, and many priests became obedient to the faith.