The Word of God Prospered

This chapter is a classic example of what happens when those who do all of the work step back and realize that it's not healthy for them to do all of the work. The vaccuum created by their holding back draws others in, gives them room to serve, to use their gifts. The Twelve had a problem. They had the spiritual gifts of pastoring, teaching, and intercession, but mercy did not make their top 3. The 7 had the gift they lacked, besides being full of the Holy Spirit and good sense. Stephen also had the gift of faith. He had "the eyes to see the Spirit at work and the ability to trust the Spirit's leading without indication of where it all might lead." Unfortunately, as we will see in the next chapter, it lead to his death, but the growth of the early church was fueled by the blood of the martyrs. And pay close attention to who was holding everyone's coats when Stephen was stoned.