No Lone Rangers in God’s Kingdom
Scripture: Acts 6:4-5
"But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word. The statement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch."
Cowboy Wisdom:
"You can't drive a thousand head alone. Even the best trail boss needs good hands he can trust with important work."
The apostles weren't saying they were too good to wait tables. They were recognizing their primary calling: to proclaim the Word of God and devote themselves to prayer. This wasn't about spiritual superiority—it was about stewardship of their unique calling.
Moses faced the same issue. His father-in-law Jethro told him, "You're going to wear yourself out trying to do everything. Select capable men who fear God and delegate responsibility."
Look at the qualifications for these seven men:
Good reputation (character matters)
Full of the Spirit (spiritual maturity)
Full of wisdom (intelligence and discernment)
These weren't "flunkies." They were quality men selected for an important task. No job in the Kingdom is too small to require good people.
Church health requires involvement. Studies show that for a maximally healthy church, 60% of people must be involved in some sort of ministry. If widows are being neglected, it's time to wait tables. If children's ministry needs teachers, it's time to step up.
The strongest outfits are those where every hand knows their job and does it well. There's no room for passengers on a cattle drive—everybody contributes.
Questions for Reflection:
Am I actively serving in my church, or am I just attending?
Do I view any ministry as "beneath me" or less important?
What unique gifts has God given me that could meet a need in my church?
Am I trying to do too much myself instead of delegating and equipping others?
Prayer Focus:
Ask God to reveal where He's calling you to serve. Pray for humility to serve faithfully wherever you're needed, whether visible or behind the scenes.
