(No Bible handy? Just click on the link.)
The church was growing exponentially which meant the way things were done needed to grow, too. At one point the twelve leaders could pretty much handle everything, but not anymore. The twelve had a clear vision of what their role in the church was... to teach and preach. Since there were other issues to handle, it was time to expand the leadership within the church.
Growth equals change when it comes to ministry. I've experienced it a lot when it comes to our Wednesday children's ministry. When we reached forty I realized the current program was not going to meet our needs and so we changed. We changed it again at 60... and again to meet the needs of 150. What we did with kids seven years ago looks totally different than what we do now. And even though how we run the program may look different, the focus is still the same. Our vision to provide opportunities for children to grow in their relationship with Jesus through his Word and relationships with others has not changed.
Most of us don't like change. We would be content to keep doing the same thing exactly like we've done for years. We think, "If it worked then, it will work now." But, when it comes to growth, change is unavoidable. The twelve leaders were willing to embrace the need for change and find a solution to the issue facing the new church.
Take a look at the result...
The Word of God prospered. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased dramatically. Not least, a great many priests submitted themselves to the faith.
Father God, remind me that growth does not occur without change.
Prepare my heart for change. Teach me to see change as a positive sign of growth.
But in it all, Your Word and call to love others never changes.
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