Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

January 30: Exodus 25-27; Acts 6

Scripture: Acts (NIV) 6:1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them. … 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.

Observation: 1. Growth brought a problem. It was a relationship problem. The leaders all spoke Hebrew. Many of the new believers spoke Greek. They had been born outside of Israel and spoke Greek, but had moved back to the Jerusalem area.
2. The problem was met with organization. The Spirit-led leaders had the congregation choose men known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. The seven chosen all had Greek names. They would be the ones most aware of the problem. They had spiritual and natural qualifications.
3. Organization did not hinder growth, but brought more growth! The organization freed the leaders to continue with their priorities and raised up other leaders to take the additional responsibilities.

Application: Many problems I face in my life and ministry have to do with organization. When my life, and especially my time is not organized properly, it hinders my priorities.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, I need your wisdom and guidance to organize the use of my talents, resources, and time to best serve the priorities you have given me. I know I can depend on your help. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!