6:1 | Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. |
6:2 | Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples to them and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. |
6:3 | Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; |
6:4 | but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word." |
6:5 | And the saying pleased the entire multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, |
6:6 | whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. |
6:7 | Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a large company of the priests were obedient to the faith. |
6:8 | And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people. |
6:9 | Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Libertines (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen. |
6:10 | And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke. |
6:11 | Then they secretly induced men to say, "We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and against God." |
6:12 | And they stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council. |
6:13 | They also set up false witnesses who said, "This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law; |
6:14 | because, we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered to us." |
6:15 | And all who sat in the council, looking steadfastly at him, saw his face as though it was the face of an angel. |