Questions and Answers
What widows were neglected in the ministry of the early church?
Hellenist
Who was murmured against because of the way they were neglecting widows?
The Hebrews
Who called the disciples together concerning the neglect of the widows?
The twelve
What job did those who called the disciples together ask if they were to leave the word of God to do?
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How many men were the brethren to look for in taking care of the widows?
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What were to be the qualifications of the men appointed to take charge in caring for the widows?
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List the seven men chosen to see that the widows were taken care of.
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Who was the man full of faith and the Holy Spirit?
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Who was the proselyte of Antioch?
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When the men were chosen to take care of the widows, what did the apostles do in appointing them?
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Where did the word of God increase and the number of disciples multiply?
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A great many of the ______ were obedient to the faith?
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Who had a dispute with Stephen over his teaching and preaching?
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From what synagogue were those who argued with Stephen?
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What were those who had a dispute with Stephen not able to resist?
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Who did some say that Stephen had spoken blasphemous words against?
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What is blasphemy?
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Who was stirred up against Stephen?
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After some were stirred up against Stephen, to whom was he taken?
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What kind of witness was set up against Stephen?
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Against what two things did witnesses say Stephen had blasphemed?
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Who did Stephen say would destroy the holy place of the Jews?
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Who delivered the customs that would be changed by Jesus of Nazareth?
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When the council looked at Stephen, what did his face look like?
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Study Notes
Early Church and Widows
- Hellenist widows (Greek-speaking Jews) were neglected in the early church's ministry.
- Discontent arose from Hebrews regarding this neglect.
Apostolic Response
- The twelve apostles convened the disciples to address the issue of widows' care.
- They emphasized the importance of their ministry in preaching the Word over serving tables.
Appointment of Assistants
- The apostles instructed brethren to select seven men for caring for the widows.
- Candidates must possess a good reputation, be full of the Holy Spirit, and demonstrate wisdom.
Selection of the Seven
- Seven men chosen included: Nicolas, Philip, Nicanor, Stephen, Timon, Parmenas, and Prochorus.
- Stephen was notable for being full of faith and the Holy Spirit; Nicolas was a proselyte from Antioch.
Apostolic Action
- After the selection, the apostles prayed and laid hands on the appointed men.
Growth of the Church
- The word of God spread, and the number of disciples increased significantly in Jerusalem.
- Many priests became obedient to the faith.
Conflict with Stephen
- Disputes arose against Stephen from various groups, including those from Asia, Alexandrians, Cyrenians, and Cilicia.
- Opponents were from the Synagogue of the Freedmen.
Resistance to Stephen
- Critics were unable to counteract the wisdom and spirit through which Stephen spoke.
- Stephen was falsely accused of speaking blasphemous words against Moses and God.
Accusations and Trial
- Blasphemy is defined as disrespect or desecration, which was charged against Stephen.
- People, elders, and scribes were stirred against him, leading to his being brought before the council.
False Testimony
- False witnesses accused Stephen of blasphemy regarding the holy place and the law.
- Stephen claimed that Jesus of Nazareth would destroy the Jewish holy place.
Prophetic Connections
- Moses was the one who delivered customs that would be altered by Jesus.
Stephen’s Divine Countenance
- When examined by the council, Stephen's face appeared like that of an angel.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge on Acts Chapter 6 with these flashcards. This quiz covers key events and figures related to the early church's ministry and the issues of widow neglect. Perfect for students and believers wanting to deepen their understanding of the scripture.
