ESOCS Devotional 26 January 2026 – The Willing Church
MEMORY VERSE: “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.” Acts 6:7 NIV
TEXT: ACTS 6:1-7
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. 2 Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. 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; 4 but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
5 And the saying pleased the whole 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 whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.
7 Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.
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Complaints arose concerning the neglect of the Hellenistic widows. Rather than allow the division to fester, the apostles invited the church into a solution-oriented mind-set. They empowered others to serve, preserved the ministry of the Word, and demonstrated humility and unity. Acts 6:7 captures a pivotal moment in the early church where the people of God embraced their responsibilities, resolved internal disputes, and aligned themselves with God’s mission. The result? Exponential growth in the number of disciples and a surprising conversion of even Jewish priests who had once opposed the faith. This moment reveals what it means to be a willing church, one that is responsive, responsible, and ready to serve.
Characteristics of a Willing Church:
- Willing to Serve (Acts 6:3-5): The early church didn’t ignore the needs within the body. Instead, they appointed Spirit-filled individuals to serve the community. A willing church is one where members use their gifts to build others up (1 Peter 4:10).
- Willing to Submit (Hebrews 13:17): For the apostles to delegate, and for the congregation to accept the decision without division, speaks to a spirit of submission and respect for godly leadership. “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority…” (Hebrews 13:17) points to the blessing of alignment in purpose.
- Willing to Change and Grow (Romans 12:2): As the church grew, needs changed. The structure of leadership adapted. The church did not resist change but embraced it with wisdom and faith. Transformation is the fruit of a willing mind renewed by the Spirit.
- Willing to Witness (Matthew 28:19-20): The result of the church’s internal alignment was outward expansion. “Go and make disciples of all nations…” was not just a commission but a culture. A willing church doesn’t only focus inward but seeks to impact the world.
- Willing to Include (Galatians 3:28): The inclusion of Hellenists in the distribution ministry signals an embrace of diversity. The church became a place where all, regardless of background, were seen, valued and served, echoing Paul’s words in Galatians 3:28, that in Christ, we are all one.
Reflections
- Are we a willing church today?
- Are we eager to serve, quick to resolve conflict, and committed to the mission of Christ?
- Growth in numbers begins with growth in character and unity. The explosion of faith in Acts 6:7 was not magic; it was the natural outcome of a church willing to be led by God and to lead others in love.
Prayer:
- Lord, make us a willing church. Soften our hearts to serve, open our eyes to see the needs around us, and fill us with the Spirit of unity and purpose. Let your Word spread through us, and may many come to know you through our willingness to follow your lead, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Further Reading: Genesis 4:1-10; Isaiah 37:21– End; Philippians 1:27-End; 2:1-4
ESOCS Devotional 26 January 2026
