Choosing of the Seven

6 Now ^[a]at this time, as the ^(A)disciples were ^(B)increasing in number, a complaint developed on the part of the ^[b](C)Hellenistic Jews against the native ^(D)Hebrews, because their ^(E)widows were being overlooked in ^(F)the daily serving of food. ² So the twelve summoned the ^[c]congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. ³ Instead, ^(G)brothers and sisters, select from among you seven men of good reputation, ^(H)full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. ⁴ But we will ^(I)devote ourselves to prayer and to the ^[d]ministry of the word.”

^8 (A)Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not ^[a]insincere, ^(B)not prone to drink much wine, ^(C)not greedy for money, ^9 (D)but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. ^10 (E)These men must also first be tested; then have them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. ^11 [b]Women must likewise be dignified, ^(F)not malicious gossips, but ^[c](G)temperate, faithful in all things. ^12 (H)Deacons must be ^(I)husbands of one wife, and ^[d](J)good managers of their children and their own households. ¹³ For those who have served well as deacons ^(K)obtain for themselves a ^[e]high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.