Acts 6:6 – “They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.”

Extended Explanation

This verse describes the final step in the appointment of seven men to serve in the early church. After a dispute arose about the fair distribution of food to widows (Acts 6:1), the apostles proposed choosing seven godly men to take on this responsibility (Acts 6:3-5). Once the church agreed on the seven, they brought them before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

The laying on of hands was not just a symbolic act—it was a way of blessing, commissioning, and setting these men apart for service. This gesture showed that they were being given authority for their new role, much like how leaders and servants of God had been commissioned in the Old Testament.

The fact that the apostles prayed before laying hands on them shows that leadership in the church is not just about ability but about God’s calling and empowerment. The apostles didn’t rely on human wisdom alone; they sought God’s guidance and blessing for these men, ensuring that they were spiritually equipped for their service.

Historical Context

In Jewish tradition, laying hands on someone was a common practice for blessing, commissioning, or passing authority. It was used when priests were appointed (Numbers 8:10), when sacrifices were made (Leviticus 1:4), and when leaders like Joshua were commissioned (Deuteronomy 34:9). The early church continued this practice, recognizing it as a way to set apart individuals for God’s work.

The seven men chosen in Acts 6 were given an important role. Though they were not apostles, they were entrusted with ensuring fairness and care within the church community. This action helped maintain unity and allowed the apostles to remain focused on their primary mission—preaching and prayer (Acts 6:4).

This verse also marks a key moment in the church’s development. By delegating responsibilities and formally appointing leaders, the early church was beginning to establish structure and organization—not based on human authority, but under God’s direction.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important truths about church leadership and service:

1. God is the one who calls and equips leaders. The apostles did not appoint these men on their own—they prayed first, seeking God’s guidance. Church leadership should always be dependent on God’s direction, not just human decision-making.
2. Spiritual leadership requires spiritual empowerment. The laying on of hands was not just a formality; it signified that these men were being given spiritual strength for their task. Church leaders today must also be equipped by the Holy Spirit, not just by their own skills or qualifications.
3. Delegation in ministry is biblical. The apostles did not try to do everything themselves. They recognized that different people have different callings, and by delegating tasks, the church could function more effectively. This remains true today—healthy churches rely on multiple leaders and servants working together.
4. Prayer is essential in appointing leaders. The apostles did not rush this decision or treat it casually. They understood the importance of seeking God’s will and blessing over those called to serve.

Literary Analysis

Acts 6:6 is a short but powerful verse that highlights the transition of authority from the apostles to the newly chosen leaders. The structure of the verse follows a clear and intentional process:

1. The church presents the seven men. This shows that the whole congregation was involved in the selection process.
2. The apostles pray. This emphasizes dependence on God before making a leadership decision.
3. The apostles lay hands on them. This symbolizes commissioning and approval.

Luke, the writer of Acts, uses concise and action-driven language to show that this was an important and orderly event. His wording also connects this moment to similar biblical events where leaders were appointed through prayer and laying on of hands (such as Moses appointing Joshua).

Biblical Cross-References

• Numbers 27:18-19 – “So the Lord said to Moses, ‘Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hand on him. Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence.’” (Moses appointing Joshua as his successor.)
• 1 Timothy 4:14 – “Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.” (Paul reminding Timothy of his spiritual commissioning.)
• 2 Timothy 1:6 – “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” (Paul recalling how Timothy was set apart for ministry.)
• Acts 13:2-3 – “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” (The early church commissioning missionaries.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that Christian leadership and service are not just human roles—they are spiritual callings. When people step into positions of leadership, whether as pastors, deacons, missionaries, or ministry leaders, they need God’s power and blessing to serve well.

1. Leadership in the church should be Spirit-led. Whether in formal leadership or informal service, we should always seek God’s direction before stepping into a role.
2. Serving others is an honorable calling. The seven men chosen were not called to preach, but to serve in practical ways. Yet, they were still prayed over and commissioned with great care. This shows that every role in the church matters.
3. Prayer is essential in decision-making. Whether choosing church leaders, making personal life choices, or facing challenges, we should always begin with prayer.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He provides leadership and guidance for His people. He does not leave His church without direction but calls and equips people to serve.

This verse also shows that God values every act of service. These men were not being called to be famous preachers or miracle-workers, but to handle daily needs within the church. Yet, God still set them apart through prayer and the laying on of hands, showing that He honors even the most practical forms of ministry.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself modeled servant leadership and emphasized that all ministry should be rooted in prayer and dependence on God.

• Luke 6:12-13 – “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.” (Jesus prayed before choosing His disciples.)
• John 13:14-15 – “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” (Jesus showed that leadership is about serving others.)
• Matthew 28:18-20 – Before ascending to heaven, Jesus commissioned His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. His final act was one of blessing and sending out His followers.

Just as Jesus prayed over His disciples and commissioned them, the apostles followed the same pattern—praying over and commissioning new leaders in the church.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think the apostles laid hands on the seven men instead of just appointing them?
2. How does this passage shape the way we think about leadership in the church?
3. What does this verse teach us about the importance of prayer in decision-making?
4. How can you serve in your church or community with the same humility and dedication as these men?
5. How does Jesus’ example of servant leadership influence your view of leadership today?

This verse reminds us that God calls, equips, and empowers His people for service. Whether in a small or big role, every act of service in the church is a sacred calling that should be approached with prayer and humility.