Devine Scripture

Acts 6:2

What does Acts 6:2 mean?

A plain-English look at Acts 6:2 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Acts 6:2 means

In response to the murmuring, the twelve apostles gathered the entire body of disciples. They articulated a foundational principle for ministry, stating that it was inappropriate for them to neglect the essential work of teaching God's Word and prayer in order to manage the daily distribution of food. This declaration clarifies the apostles' primary calling and establishes the importance of distinguishing between different types of ministry, ensuring that the spiritual leadership remained focused on its core responsibilities without being sidetracked by administrative tasks.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And the Apostles sent for all the disciples and said, It is not right for us to give up preaching the word of God in order to make distribution of food.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and the twelve, having called near the multitude of the disciples, said, `It is not pleasing that we, having left the word of God, do minister at tables;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Then the twelve, calling together the multitude of the disciples, said: It is not reason that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And the twelve, having called the multitude of the disciples to [them], said, It is not right that we, leaving the word ofGod, should serve tables.

Context

Following the identification of the problem in verse 1, this verse presents the apostles' immediate and crucial response. It defines their essential role as leaders, setting the stage for their proposed solution to the logistical issue. This statement establishes the priority of spiritual over administrative duties, creating the framework for the appointment of others to handle practical concerns.

v.1Now in these days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring of the Grecian Jews against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

v.2This passage

v.3Look ye out therefore, brethren, from among you seven men of good report, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Exodus 18:17

    And Moses’ father-in-law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.

  • Acts 25:27

    For it seemeth to me unreasonable, in sending a prisoner, not withal to signify the charges against him.

  • Numbers 11:11

    And Moses said unto Jehovah, Wherefore hast thou dealt ill with thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favor in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?

  • Deuteronomy 1:9

    And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone:

  • Acts 21:22

    What is it therefore? they will certainly hear that thou art come.

  • Nehemiah 6:3

    And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Acts 6

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Acts 6.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Acts 6:2.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary