6:1 the Greek-speaking Jews Refers to ethnic Jews who practiced Judaism and largely adopted Greek language and culture. They may have lived most of their lives outside of Judaea.

the Hebraic Jews Refers to Jews who have not widely adopted Greek language or culture.

widows In the ancient Near East, widows often could not survive unless immediate family members provided for them (compare 1 Tim 5:9–16). Overlooking fellow believers who were in such need because of a cultural difference betrays a serious and highly problematic tension within the Jerusalem church.

daily distribution of food This was for those in need. Compare Acts 4:32, 34.

6:2 neglect the word of God The disciples remind the other believers of their true responsibility to teach the message of God and witness to Christ—the main priority of the Church (compare 1:8).

to serve tables The apostles do not denigrate the practice of meeting the practical needs of other believers, but delegate responsibilities based on calling and suitability.

Diakonos Word Study

6:3 of good reputation To protect the holiness of the community and to safeguard impartiality in the distribution of goods, the community must choose people who have shown themselves godly and wise. The qualifications for these leaders is similar to the more elaborate list given for the office of deacon in 1 Tim 3:8–13.

the whole group It is significant that the narrative records the Church’s single-mindedness in this matter in light of the previous disunity between cultural factions.

6:6 placed their hands Compare 1 Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6.

6:7 was increasing greatly The story of the community’s struggle to overcome internal divisions begins and ends with the growth of the Church (see Acts 6:1).

a large number of priests The gospel message begins to win over even religious leaders, despite ongoing opposition by the local Jewish religious leadership.

6:8 wonders and signs Stephen’s gifts and empowerment by the Spirit are similar to that of the apostles.

Miracles in Acts Table

6:9 Synagogue of the Freedmen Men who belonged to a Greek-speaking synagogue, perhaps founded by or attended by freed slaves. See note on Matt 4:23.

Cyrenians From the region around Cyrene, a city in northern Africa.

Alexandrians From the region around Alexandria, a city in Egypt.

Cilicia and Asia Referring to Asia Minor (modern Turkey).

6:10 they were not able to resist Stephen’s opponents try but fail to overcome him in theological debate (compare Luke 21:15).

6:11 secretly instigated Since Stephen’s opponents cannot counter the wisdom he has been given by the Spirit, they resort to deceit and slander.

6:13 false witnesses These witnesses and their accusations are reminiscent of those brought forward in Jesus’ trial (Mark 14:56–58).

6:14 will destroy The witnesses twist Stephen’s words about Jesus and His work. Jesus never claimed He would destroy the temple (compare John 2:19–21); He did, however, predict its destruction (Mark 13:1–2), which took place in ad 70. He also did not claim to overturn the law, but to fulfill it (Matt 5:17).

6:15 the face of an angel Compare Exod 34:29–35.