BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: HELLENISTIC AND HEBRAIC JEWS 2
Biblical Critique: Hellenistic and Hebraic Jews
As the number of disciples increased in Jerusalem, a complaint was placed by the
Hellenistic Jews against the Hebrews. The Hellenistic Jews believed that their widows were not
receiving an adequate amount of food served by Hebraic Jews each day. It was suggested that
seven holy men be selected to be put in charge of handling the food, along with delivering the
ministry of the word. The announcement found widespread approval among the congregation
and seven men were chosen and brought to the apostles. This allowed God’s word to spread as
followers increased (New American Standard Version, 1960/2020, Acts 6:1-7).
Read
Fact Verses
1. The disciples were increasing in
number.
Acts 6:1
2. A complaint was placed by the
Hellenistic Jews against the Hebraic
Jews because they thought their
widows were being overlooked in the
serving of food.
Acts 6:1
3. The congregation was summoned and
it was said that it was not good to
abandon the word of God to serve
tables.
Acts 6:2
4. Seven men, full of spirit, were to be
put in charge of the task.
Acts 6:3
5. They will be devoted to prayer and . Acts 6:4
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: HELLENISTIC AND HEBRAIC JEWS 3
ministry of the Word
6. This announcement found approval
with the whole congregation.
Acts 6:5
7. They chose seven men who were full
of faith.
Acts 6:5
8. The seven men were brought before
the apostles.
Acts 6:6
9. The word of God kept spreading. Acts 6:7
10. The number of disciples continued to
increase in Jerusalem.
Acts 6:7
Reflect
What do you see in the passage that relates
to God’s character, man’s character, or
Jesus?
Verses
God’s character It is not good to neglect the word of God to
serve tables.
Acts 6:2
Man’s character The Hellenistic Jews complained against
the native Hebrews because they felt that
their widows were not being adequately
served food.
Acts 6:1
Jesus N/A
Respond
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: HELLENISTIC AND HEBRAIC JEWS 4
In Acts 6: 1-7, a conflict emerges between the Hellenistic Jews and the Hebraic Jews
concerning the serving of food to the Hellenistic widows. This is a classic conflict that can occur
between mankind, as one group feels that it is being slighted by another group. It was felt that
abandoning the word of the Lord to serve tables was not advantageous so a different solution
should be found. In response to this request, the congregation chose seven holy men who would
now handle the task and make sure that everyone was given an adequate amount of food and that
the word of God was not forgotten. The final result was a success in Jerusalem as the disciples
increased in number and there was an increased devotion to the word of the Lord (New American
Standard Version, 1960/2020, Acts 6:1-7).
As the Hellenistic and Hebraic Jews came to an agreement and devotion to God’s word
was spread, peace increased throughout the area. This practice can be employed in regular work
environments as well. Sometimes, it is best to pray and use the word of God to handle adversity.
Together with mindfulness, the Lord’s word can help one discover his strength and the best way
to handle an impending conflict. If one is mindful they are better equipped to consider new
solutions instead of only using old practices (Barsky, 2017).
A very important thing to note in Acts 6:1-7 is that while the two sides were arguing, they
actually came to the realization that they could work together for good rather than remaining in
conflict. This led to an increase in God’s word and more devotion to the Lord. Values and beliefs
should not be taken lightly. Whether it be the Lord’s word, views concerning a workplace
project, or facing tremendous personal conflict, one should never abandon their convictions.
People should work with others who have similar viewpoints in order to find the solution that
serves the most people (Barsky, 2017).
Conclusion
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: HELLENISTIC AND HEBRAIC JEWS 5
The disagreement between the Hellenistic and Hebraic Jews in Acts 6:1-7 acts as a
reminder to always keep the word of God at the forefront of one’s life. Everyone will face
difficult times, whether it be conflict or personal tragedy; however, following His word is the
greatest path to peace. God is with man through all that he does and says, and that is seen in this
section of Acts. The Hellenistic and native Hebrews realized that spreading God’s word and
increasing His community were the most important paths to take. Thus, steps were taken to
ensure the Lord’s word would flourish and everyone would be cared for.
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: HELLENISTIC AND HEBRAIC JEWS 6
References
Barsky, A. (2017). Conflict resolution for the helping professions: Negotiation, mediation,
advocacy, facilitation, and restorative justice. Oxford University Press, Incorporated.
New American Standard Bible. (2020). New American Standard Bible Online.
https://www.bible.com/versions/100-nasb-new-american-standard-bible/ (Original work
published 1960)
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