Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

ACTS 6:2KJV
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Acts 6:2 (KJV)

What does Acts 6:2 mean?

Acts 6:2 describes how the twelve apostles gathered all the disciples together and explained that it would not be right for them to stop teaching God’s word in order to take care of practical needs like serving food. The apostles are making clear that their main responsibility is sharing and teaching God’s message.

In this situation, the early Christian community was growing, and some practical problems had come up—specifically, the daily distribution of food was not being handled fairly. The apostles, as leaders, called everyone together to address the issue. They explained that their calling was to focus on spreading the word of God, so others would need to take on the important work of serving tables and managing daily needs.

The Greek behind Acts 6:2

  • λόγος (logos, transliterated as "logos") means "word," and here refers to the message or teaching about God. The apostles are emphasizing that their main work is to share this message.
  • διακονέω (diakoneō, transliterated as "diakoneō") is translated here as "serve" and often means to wait on or minister to others, especially in practical ways like serving food. This highlights the difference between spiritual teaching and practical service in the community.
  • τραπέζαις (trapezais, transliterated as "trapezais") means "tables," which in this context refers to the distribution of food or resources, not just literal tables. The apostles are not saying this work is unimportant, but that it is a different kind of service.

Why Acts 6:2 matters

  • Acts 6:2 helps clear up that the apostles were not looking down on practical service; instead, they were making sure that both spiritual teaching and practical needs were handled well by different people.
  • This verse shows the early church organizing itself to meet both spiritual and everyday needs, setting a pattern for shared leadership and different roles within the community.
  • Acts 6:2 connects directly to the following verses, where the community chooses seven people to take care of these practical tasks, allowing the apostles to focus on teaching.