The Church In Transition Acts 6:1-7

January 28th, 2026

Summary

This sermon from Acts 6 addresses the challenges churches face during periods of growth and transition. The early church experienced growing pains when the Hellenistic Jewish widows were being overlooked in daily food distribution, creating complaints and potential division. The apostles responded by appointing seven deacons to handle administrative matters while they focused on prayer and preaching. The pastor emphasizes that growth brings both blessings and challenges, requiring churches to adapt and change while maintaining their focus on God's Word and reaching people for Christ. He challenges the congregation to embrace growth rather than resist it, noting that many churches fail to grow because they prioritize comfort and tradition over ministry effectiveness.

Daily Devotion Link

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts, ready to learn from Your Word. As we gather to study this passage about the early church in transition, we ask that You would prepare our hearts to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to be open to change and growth in our own lives and in our church. Give us wisdom to understand how we can better serve You and reach others for Christ. May Your Holy Spirit guide our discussion and help us apply these truths to our daily walk with You. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen. 

Ice Breaker

What's one change in your life (big or small) that initially seemed difficult but turned out to be a blessing? 

Key Verses

  1. Acts 6:1-7
  2. Acts 6:7

Questions

  • What were the specific problems the early church faced as it grew, and how do these compare to challenges churches face today?
  • Why do you think the apostles chose to delegate the food distribution rather than handle it themselves? What does this teach us about priorities in ministry?
  • The sermon mentions that people often want a 'growing church' but not a 'big church.' What's the difference, and why might people feel this way?
  • How can churches balance honoring traditions and senior members while also adapting to reach new generations and communities?
  • What role did communication and language barriers play in the early church's problems? How do modern churches face similar communication challenges?
  • The apostles devoted themselves to 'prayer and the preaching ministry.' Why are these two things so crucial for church leadership?
  • How can church members support their leaders during times of transition and growth rather than resist change?
  • What does it mean that 'a large group of priests became obedient to the faith' after the church addressed its problems? What does this teach us about handling conflicts properly?

Life Application

This week, identify one area where you might be resisting change in your personal life or church life. Pray about it and ask God to help you embrace His will, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. Also, look for one practical way you can support your church's growth and ministry, whether through volunteering, welcoming newcomers, or encouraging church leadership. 

Key Takeaways

  • Growth brings both blessings and challenges that must be addressed with wisdom and prayer
  • Church leaders must prioritize prayer and preaching while delegating other important tasks to qualified people
  • Successful churches adapt to change while maintaining their focus on reaching people for Christ
  • Communication problems and cultural differences can threaten church unity if not properly addressed
  • When churches handle problems biblically, it leads to continued growth and even reaches unexpected people

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of fellowship and learning from Your Word. Help us to be people who embrace the changes You bring into our lives and our church. Give us hearts that are more concerned with reaching the lost than with our own comfort. Help us to support our church leadership through prayer and service as we continue to grow and transition. May we always remember that the church belongs to You, and our buildings and traditions are tools to be used for Your glory. Prepare us for the growth and opportunities You have ahead, and help us to be faithful stewards of all You've given us. In Jesus' name, Amen.