Acts 6:2-4

6:2 So the twelve ¹  called ²  the whole group ³  of the disciples together and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to wait on tables. ⁴  6:3 But carefully select from among you, brothers, ⁵  seven ⁶  men who are well-attested, ⁷  full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge ⁸  of this necessary task. ⁹  6:4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

¹ sn The twelve refers to the twelve apostles.

² tn Grk “calling the whole group…together, said.” The participle προσκαλεσάμενοι (proskalesamenoi) has been translated as a finite verb due to requirements of contemporary English style.

³ tn Or “the multitude.”

⁴ tn Grk “to serve tables.”

⁵ tn It is not clear from a historical standpoint (but it is unlikely) that women would have been involved in the selection process too. For this reason the translation “brothers” has been retained, rather than “brothers and sisters” (used in contexts where both male and female believers are clearly addressed).

⁶ sn Seven. Jewish town councils often had seven members (Josephus, Ant. 4.18.14 [4.214]).

⁷ tn Or “are of good reputation” (BDAG 618 s.v. μαρτυρέω 2.b).

⁸ tn The translation “put in charge” is given by BDAG 492 s.v. καθίστημι 2.

⁹ tn Grk “of this need”; translated “necessary work” or “needed task” by L&N 42.22.