God’s plan for His church has never been built around a few leaders doing everything, but around Spirit-filled people living on mission together. In Acts 6, we see that spiritual growth requires preparation, participation, and surrender as spectators become servants and the church matures into the family God designed it to be.
READ: Acts 1:8 –
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
DISCUSS: Why is the mission of the church dependent on Spirit-filled people rather than just gifted leaders? What does it mean for you personally to be a witness through your life, not just your words?
READ: Acts 6:2–3 –
“It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables… choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom.”
DISCUSS: What keeps people from moving from attending church to serving others? Where might God be inviting you to take responsibility for caring for His people?
READ: Acts 6:5 –
“They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit…”
DISCUSS: What does it look like to be governed by the Spirit in everyday areas like relationships, work, finances, or family life? How does surrender prepare someone for leadership?
READ: Acts 6:7 –
“So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.”
DISCUSS: How does shared responsibility lead to spiritual growth and mission expansion? What step of obedience could help God work through you to impact others?
Where is God inviting you to move from watching what He is doing… to participating in what He is building?
Holy Spirit, fill our lives and govern our hearts so that we become people who serve, love, and lead like Jesus. Help us surrender comfort and control so we can participate fully in Your mission and experience the abundant life You promise. Prepare us for the work You want to do through us as Your church. Amen.
This week, prepare yourself for what God wants to do:
Preparation is prophetic—when we make room for God to move, He forms us into the Spirit-filled church He desires.