Here’s just a quick question to ponder … if being filled with the Holy Spirit was one of the major prerequisites for qualifying individuals to minister in the New Testament church, how can we expect any less from those who minister and assist in the ministry in today’s church? While being filled with the Holy Spirit was certainly required for those preaching and teaching, Acts 6 shows us that this qualification carried over to what appears to be every area of ministry.
“So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. ‘We apostles should spend
our time preaching and teaching the word of God, not administering a food
program,’ they said. ‘Now look around among yourselves, brothers, and
select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Holy Spirit
and wisdom. We will put them in charge of this business.'”
Acts 6:2-3 (New Living Translation)
In order to serve tables and distribute food, the believers had to be filled with the Holy Spirit. (From witnessing how some “Christians” behave at church picnics, I can easily understand how the believers that distributed the food would have to be filled with the Holy Spirit!). We’re not talking Bible-waving, pulpit-pounding preachers. Luke wrote that this was expected in what we would call today the ministry of helps.
Today, we can’t settle for a fill-a-position mentality. Not just anyone will suffice. Today’s New Testament church must have individuals full of the Holy Spirit serving in every area of ministry, be it teaching our children and youth, serving as ushers, parking lot staff, greeters, etc. Question answered!!!
