6:7 - Unstoppable Growth

"Then the word of God spread, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith." — Acts 6:7

Reflection

Acts 6:7 drops us into an incredible moment in the early church’s story—when God’s word was spreading fast, more and more people were becoming followers of Jesus, and even the priests, who were known for keeping traditions, were opening their hearts to faith. But if you look a little closer, this explosion of growth happened right after the church faced some challenges. People weren’t getting treated fairly, and there was tension between different groups. Instead of ignoring the problem, the disciples listened, made changes, and chose seven people to help make sure everyone’s needs were met. Because they worked together and trusted God, the message of Jesus reached even more lives.

This verse isn’t just about numbers; it’s about what happens when everyday people choose faithfulness and teamwork. The church didn’t grow because everything was perfect or easy—they grew because they were willing to tackle tough issues and serve others. Acts 6:7 shows that when God’s people step up, care for each other, and stay focused on sharing His love, amazing things happen. The word of God spreads wider, and lives are changed in ways no one expects.

Even those who seemed least likely to believe—the priests—became followers because they saw something real and powerful happening in the community. It’s proof that faithfulness isn’t just about big, dramatic moments; sometimes it’s about doing what’s right in the everyday stuff, even when it’s hard. When you decide to be faithful in small things, God uses it to make a bigger impact than you can imagine. Acts 6:7 is a reminder that your actions matter, and together, you can help God’s story reach more people.

Personal Application

If you’re a teenager, you’ve probably noticed how quickly things can change—at school, online, or in friendships. Maybe you’ve felt left out or watched someone else get treated unfairly. The early church was full of regular people who faced messy situations, just like you do. Their willingness to speak up, help out, and trust God made a difference not only for themselves but for their whole community. When you see a problem, you can choose to be part of the solution, just like those seven helpers in Acts 6.

Sometimes, it’s easy to think your actions don’t matter or that you’re too young to make a real impact. Acts 6:7 proves the opposite: even simple acts of kindness, standing up for someone, or working together can help God’s love spread in big ways. You don’t have to be a leader or have all the answers. Just being faithful with what you have—your time, your voice, your willingness to serve—can inspire others and help change lives.

As you go through your day, look for ways to include others, listen to people’s stories, and offer support. You might not see instant results, but God can use your faithfulness to do more than you think. Whether you’re helping a friend, volunteering, or praying for someone, remember that God’s word grows when we show up, care, and trust Him with the rest. Your faithfulness can plant seeds that grow into something amazing.

Thought-Provoking Questions

1. Can you think of a time when working together with others made a difference in a tough situation?
2. Why do you think God uses ordinary people to help spread His word and love?
3. What is one small way you can show faithfulness or serve someone this week?
4. How might your school or friend group change if you chose to include and support others, even when it’s hard?

Prayer

God, thank You for showing me that faithfulness matters and that You can use even my small actions to make a big difference. Help me notice the needs around me and give me courage to step up and serve others, whether it’s at school, at home, or with friends. Teach me to work together with people, even when things get complicated. Fill me with Your love and guide me so that my words and actions help spread Your message. Remind me that I’m never too young to be part of Your plan. Thank You for including me and giving me opportunities to grow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.