As the mass of believers grew, there were complaints that the Greek-speaking members within community were not being fairly served meals. There’s panic at the church potluck. The twelve decided to add seven additional members to help serve. They couldn’t let their speaking schedule be taken up with food management. Their criteria for leadership was a good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom. They chose Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus. They prayed for them and laid hands on them. Many more people, including priests were saved. Now, we see the leadership of the movement including and reflecting the growing linguistic diversity of the new believers, which attracted even more growth. 

Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing wonders and signs. He also triggers pushback from the leadership of the synagogue of freedmen, proselytes and other believers that originated from outside of Israel. They couldn’t stand the wisdom of his words, so they got people to slander him and say he spoke against Moses. He was seized and brought in front of the religious counsel. Even as they lied about him, his face was like an angel. Their biggest complaint was that he was threatening their traditions.

When we seek the power and truth of the Holy Spirit, we have to hold on to our expectations less tightly. Growth doesn’t look like only what happened before. It’s also interesting to note their new cafeteria worker immediately became the hot, new preacher. It’s in the practice of serving others, where the Holy Spirit is active.