Spiritual Delegation and Consecration Lead to Growth
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | March 14 2025 | Acts 6:1-7
KEY VERSE: They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Acts 6:6-7 (NIV)
MESSAGE: We previously looked at some of the principles of delegating that the early church leaders practised. In this case of needing to equitably care for all the widows, the body of believers presented seven men they felt spiritually fit the requirements given to them by the apostles for servants to meet this need (Acts 6:3). The apostles then placed their hands on those men to delegate and consecrate them publicly as specially designated servants (Acts 6:6). Affirming their responsibility and roles was vitally important for them as they served. Both the body of believers who selected the seven men and the widows whom these men were called to serve knew to trust, follow, and help them!
This act of consecration was not just symbolic; it was an invocation of God’s blessing, empowerment, and guidance. Spiritual leadership is not just about skills—it requires God’s anointing. Consecration ensures effectiveness: It acknowledges God's call on the individual, empowers leaders to serve with divine wisdom, and affirms God’s authority in the work of ministry.
Because the apostles focused on their calling and empowered others, the church grew spiritually and numerically (Acts 6:7). This principle remains true today: churches that practice wise delegation and seek God’s blessing experience greater effectiveness and impact. Growth comes when leadership is shared wisely, ministry is consecrated in prayer and the Word of God remains central.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Spiritual delegation and consecration are essential for sustaining church growth. Leaders must recognise their primary calling, delegate responsibilities to faithful individuals, and seek God’s anointing over those who serve. When this is done, the church functions effectively, spiritual needs are met, and God’s kingdom expands.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the power of consecration. Help us to share responsibilities wisely and seek Your anointing in all we do. May our churches grow in unity, impact, and faithfulness to Your mission. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 73: Numbers 9-10 - The Cloud Over the Tabernacle and the Silver Trumpets
DAILY word study: LAID THEIR HANDS
The phrase laid their hands in Acts 6:6 is from the Greek ἐπιτίθημι χεῖρας (epitithēmi cheiras), meaning to place hands upon someone for blessing, commissioning, or empowerment. It is a common biblical expression for transferring authority, invoking God's presence, and consecrating individuals for ministry. Laying hands symbolized divine approval and empowerment in both the Old and New Testaments.
Old Testament:
In Numbers 27:18-23, Moses laid hands on Joshua to transfer leadership.
In Leviticus 16:21, hands were laid on the scapegoat, symbolizing transference of responsibility.
New Testament:
In Acts 13:2-3, Paul and Barnabas were commissioned for missions by the laying on of hands.
In 1 Timothy 4:14, Paul reminds Timothy that his gift was confirmed through the laying on of hands.
This act signifies public recognition of God’s call, empowerment through the Spirit, and the Church’s affirmation of leadership.
Reflection:
Are we seeking God’s blessing and empowerment in leadership, or are we just filling roles? True effectiveness in ministry comes when God’s anointing is sought, and His will is affirmed. Who in your life needs to be affirmed, encouraged, or commissioned today?
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