“Resolving an Ethnic Ministry Matter” (Billy Russell 7/5/20)

                                   Shaken & Sent to the Nations

                     “Resolving an Ethnic Ministry Matter” (Acts 6:1-7)

          

In the early church an ethnic ministry matter arose about equal care and provision for Hebraic and (neglected) Grecian widows (Acts 6:1-7). The apostles entrusted resolution of the ministry matter to the people. The best qualified problem-solvers (table-waiters) were appointed, which aided in the overall advance of the Gospel. What lessons on diversity and ministry can we learn from the early church for our ministry together today?

 

           Lessons on Diversity & Ministry for the 21st Century Church

 

Conflicts happen (6:1-2)- even in good, growing churches.

     Issue: Equal care and provision between ethnic widow groups.

                It was a touchy ethnic ministry matter being poorly handled.

 

God uses His people to solve ministry problems together (6:3-4).

     “Love people, solve problems.” In ministry there are always people to

          love/serve & problems to be managed. Get the order correct!

      Pastors and people collaborate to address ministry opportunities.

      Shared leadership model- delegation & trust meet ministry challenges.

           Jesus leads His Church. He is the head (Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:25).

           Leaders lead/care on behalf of Jesus (1 Peter 5:2; Eph. 4:11-12).

           Leaders equip and encourage others to lead/serve in the Body.

           The Body affirms & the leaders commission them to serve the Body.

 

                                              

Resolution creates capacity for continued ministry growth (6:5-6)-

     The right people- full of the Holy Spirit, faith, and wisdom.

     The right thing- meeting a pressing need.

     The right way- diligently attacking the problem, and not the people.

     The right resolution- a growing ethnic tension is resolved & it leads to...

 

 

Gospel advance (6:7) - Way to be mission forward!

     The Word works- “So the word of God spread.”

     Disciples disciple- “The number of disciples... increased rapidly.”

     People are changed by the Gospel- “... and a large number of priests

                                                                became obedient to the faith.”