06.30.19 Serving Tables? (Acts 6)

Introduction

Many of us find it easy to get distracted by minutiae, but distraction from that which is important is dangerous.

This is especially true for elders who have the responsibility of tending to the souls of the saints.

Distraction (Acts 6:1-7)

The Apostles had been given their work of witnessing to Christ throughout the nations (Acts 1:6-8).

The Apostles knew that they could not be distracted from the work of prayer and preaching to tend tables.

Instead of distraction, the Apostles delegated the work to faithful men.

Destruction (Exodus 18:13-23)

By judging every matter, Moses was bringing himself to exhaustion.

By judging every matter, Moses was bringing the people to frustration.

For the sake of the congregation and himself, Moses had to delegate the easier judgments.

Demanding (1 Peter 5:1-5; Acts 20:28; Matthew 18:12-14)

The elders are to shepherd the flock and lead by example (1 Peter 5:1-5).

The elders are to oversee the flock (Acts 20:28).

If elders get distracted by the cares of the many, the one who is straying will be neglected (Matthew 18:12-14).

Conclusion

As the sheep over which the shepherds have oversight, our responsibility is to submit (Hebrews 13:17).

When each member serves as he/she ought, then the elders can focus on the work they have been given by God (1 Corinthians 12:12ff).