Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples to them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.
the twelve.
Acts 21:22 What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come.
It.
Acts 4:19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.
Acts 25:27 For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.
we should.
Exodus 18:17-26 And Moses' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good…
Numbers 11:11-13 And Moses said unto the LORD, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me? …
Deuteronomy 1:9-14 And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone: …
and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God
The "word of God" here refers to the teachings of Jesus and the message of the Gospel. The apostles prioritize their primary mission of preaching and teaching, which is central to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). This phrase underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and the dissemination of the Gospel as the core mission of the Church. The apostles recognize that their calling is to focus on spiritual matters, ensuring that the message of salvation is not compromised or overshadowed by other duties.
in order to wait on tables.
"Wait on tables" refers to the practical service of distributing food and resources, likely to the widows and needy within the community, as mentioned earlier in Acts 6:1. This phrase highlights the practical needs of the early Church and the necessity of organizing community care. The apostles' decision to delegate this responsibility leads to the appointment of the first deacons, as seen in the subsequent verses. This division of labor allows the apostles to maintain their focus on spiritual leadership while ensuring that the physical needs of the community are met, reflecting the body of Christ's diverse functions (1 Corinthians 12:4-31).
The verse opens by pointing to “the Twelve,” Jesus’ chosen apostles (Luke 6:13; Acts 1:21-26). Their number signals continuity with the Lord’s original commission and underscores their unique authority to establish doctrine (John 16:13; Ephesians 2:20). From the outset, Scripture shows:
• Leadership in the church is God-appointed, not self-appointed.
• Authority carries responsibility—here, the responsibility to guard sound teaching (1 Timothy 6:20).
Rather than acting in isolation, the apostles gather “all the disciples,” illustrating transparent, community-minded leadership (Acts 15:4; Proverbs 11:14). This moment highlights:
• Every believer is valued and included (Romans 12:4-5).
• Congregational involvement helps prevent murmuring and division (Acts 6:1; Philippians 2:14).
Words matter. The apostles speak plainly, modeling clear communication (Colossians 4:6; Proverbs 25:11). They address the issue directly, fostering unity through honest dialogue (Ephesians 4:25). Leadership that listens and then speaks with conviction reflects Christ (Mark 10:42-45).
The heart of their statement: nothing must sidetrack them from preaching and teaching. Cross references confirm this priority:
• Acts 20:27—Paul declares he did not hesitate to proclaim the whole counsel of God.
• 2 Timothy 4:2—“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.”
• Matthew 28:19-20—The Great Commission centers on teaching everything Christ commanded.
Neglecting Scripture would jeopardize the church’s foundation (Psalm 119:105). The apostles’ example urges pastors and teachers today to keep the word central.
“Waiting on tables” describes daily distribution to widows—vital, yet administrative (Acts 6:1). The apostles aren’t demeaning service; they’re assigning gifts wisely (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Key truths:
• Practical ministry matters (James 2:15-17), but different callings require different focus (Ephesians 4:11-12).
• Delegation allows the body to function healthily (Exodus 18:17-23; Romans 12:6-8).
• When everyone serves in their God-given role, both word and deed flourish (Acts 6:7).
Acts 6:2 teaches that Christ’s church thrives when spiritual leaders prioritize Scripture and equip others for hands-on service. By gathering the disciples, speaking candidly, and delegating tasks, the apostles model a balanced, Spirit-led approach where teaching remains central and practical needs are fully met.
(2) Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples.--The Apostles meet the crisis with singular tact and moderation. They do not resent the suspicion; they are not careful to vindicate themselves against it. They remembered, it may be, the precedent presented by the life of Moses (Exodus 18:25), and they act, as he had acted, by delegating part of their authority to others. The collective action of the multitude is strikingly in harmony with the Greek ideas attached to the word Ecclesia, as the assembly in which every citizen might take his share. Representative government might come as a necessity of later times; as yet, every member of the congregation, every citizen of the new polity, was invited, as having a right to vote.It is not reason.--Literally, It is not pleasing, as in Acts 12:3. The word implies that they had undertaken a burdensome duty, not for their own pleasure, because they liked it, but for the good of the community.
And serve tables.--The word was used for the "tables" of money-changers, as in Matthew 21:12, John 2:15, and was, therefore, equally appropriate whether we think of the relief as being given in money or in kind.
Verse 2. - And for then, A.V.; fit for reasons, A.V.; forsake for leave, A.V. It is not fit; literally, pleasing; ἀρεστόν is often the rendering of טוב in the LXX.; e.g. Gem 16:6; Deuteronomy 12:28. In Exodus 15:26, Deuteronomy 6:18, etc., it stands for יָשָׁר, that which is right. Serve tables. The English reader should remember that the "ministration" of ver. 1, the "serve" of this verse, and the "deacon" which was the name of the new officers, are all forms of the same Greek word (διακονία διακονεῖν διάκονος). In ver. 4 "the ministry of the Word" is opposed to "the daily ministration" of meat. The passage gives a necessary warning to the ministers of God's Word not to spend too much time and strength upon any secular work, even though it be a work of charity. They must give themselves to the Word of God and to prayer. There are Christian laity to serve tables.