Opening Scripture
“Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. “Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” The statement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch. And these they brought before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them.”
Acts 6:1-7 NASB
A Reflection On Compassion
Every time the church in Jerusalem experienced growth, Scripture shows a consistent pattern: spiritual expansion was tied directly to compassion for those in need. The early chapters of Acts highlight this connection again and again (Acts 2:44–47; 4:4, 9, 21, 33–35; 5:14; 6:1–7). Where there was generosity, unity, and sacrificial care, the gospel flourished.
Even today, during seasons of dramatic change, fear, and uncertainty, people long for reassurance that they have not been forgotten. Acts 6 records one such moment. The Greek-speaking widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution, leading to frustration and a sense of abandonment. But the church responded with compassion, organization, and action. And the result? “The word of God kept on spreading” (Acts 6:7).
This raises a necessary question for us: What kind of people will we be?
God Has Always Cared for the Poor and Needy
Compassion is not a modern idea—it is part of God’s eternal character. His laws reflected this concern. The sabbatical year ensured provision for the vulnerable (Ex. 23:10–11; Deut. 15:1–11), and He warned His people not to oppress the poor or the stranger (Deut. 24:14).
God also made promises to the needy:
- He will not forget them (Ps. 9:18).
- He will arise to give them safety (Ps. 12:5).
- He will deliver them (Ps. 35:10).
- He lifts and strengthens them (Ps. 113:7; Is. 25:4).
- He will not forsake them (Is. 41:17).
Few passages capture God’s heart better than Psalm 146:5-10, which describes Him as the God who feeds the hungry, frees prisoners, lifts the bowed down, protects strangers, and supports widows and orphans.
And God expects His people to reflect this same heart. Proverbs calls the righteous to defend the poor (Prov. 29:7; 31:9, 20), while condemning those who neglect them (Ps. 37:14; Prov. 30:14). The New Testament echoes this call loudly (Eph. 4:28; James 2:14–26; Luke 3:11; 1 John 3:17). Though Scripture warns against supporting laziness (2 Thess. 3:6–13; 1 Tim. 5:8), it overwhelmingly teaches that the people of God must stand with the needy.
Jesus Embodied Compassion, and We Must Imitate Him.
Jesus is the perfect example of compassion. Scripture calls us to imitate His heart and His actions (Phil. 2:5; 1 Pet. 2:21–22; 1 John 2:6). His mission itself was rooted in compassion (Luke 4:16–19), and the prophets had foretold it (Isa. 11:1–4). Paul followed that same example in his ministry to others (Acts 20:35; 1 Cor. 11:1).
Jesus made compassion unmistakably clear in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). Compassion does not ask who the person is or whether they deserve it—it simply acts. Real faith becomes real life (Matt. 7:24–27; 1 John 3:17–18).
The Early Church Lived Compassion—and So Must We
The first-century church repeatedly demonstrated generous care: Jerusalem (Acts 2:41-45), Antioch (Acts 11:27-30), Macedonia and Achaia (Rom. 15:26-28), Corinth (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 8–9).
They supported their own, supported other congregations, and did good to all (Gal. 6:10). Their example leaves us no doubt that compassion is a hallmark of the church.
Today, we can follow their pattern in practical ways: providing shelter, clothing, food, financial help, medicine, transportation, childcare, or simply a loving visit.
The church grows when the church cares. The book of Acts demonstrates it. Jesus modeled it. God commands it. The early church lived it.
Now, it is our turn. May we be the people who see the needs around us—and meet them with the heart of God.
