Acts 6

Acts 6:1

THe Grecians,] it is likely that they were Iewes dwelling amongst the Grecians out of their Country; who had taken a habit of the customes, language and doctrine of the Grecians in many things, differing, from those Ierusalem, Acts 9. 29. and 11. 20 Their widdowes,] Namely the Grecians widdowes: held by the true Iewes unequall to theirs in honour, by reason of the foresaid mixture and by reason of the dignity of the principall Citie of the Nation Neglected,] either because the were assisted equally with the rest, and with equall honour, in the distribution of the poores goods, Acts 2. 45. and 4. 35. or that they were not admitted into any honourable office of the said distribution, according to the custome of employing therein honourable widdowes, which was afterwards confirmed and regulated, 1 Timothy 5:9

Acts 6:2

It is not reason,] the Apostles in the beginning by reason of the small number of beleevers had the charge of the poore, Acts 4:35. But the Church being increased they could not doe that and preach to. Whereupon by divine inspiration they made Deacons, upon whom they disburthened themselves of this ministration: who also had power to provide for these contentions and disorders Tables,] Namely at those common meales, Acts 2:42; Acts 2:46. under which is comprehended all the foresaid ministration.

Acts 6:5

A proselyte,] Namely a Pagan converted to Iudaisme, Mat: 23. 15.

Acts 6:6

They layd,] a most ancient Ceremonie in consecration, in signe that such persons were appropriated to God, Exodus 29:10. and likewise of blessing, as if the grace and power of God did settle upon them, Genesis 48:14. Matthew 19:13.

Acts 6:7

Increased,] Namely did spread it selfe abroad amongst the people were obedient] did voluntarily submit themselves to beleeve the Gospell.

Acts 6:8

And power,] of divine power and efficie in all his words and deeds. Or of the power of the Holy Ghost, to worke miracles.

Acts 6:9

Of the Synagogues,] there being in Ierusalem diverse places of Ecclesiasticall meetings, for the reading and expounding of Gods word: and for ordinary prayers, the Temple not being sufficient for these purposes, for all men, and at all times: but it was for the Priests, and for the most Religious actions, sacrifices workship, &c. of the people Of the Libertines,] it is likely they were Iewes borne of aves, made free by the Romans: and that they had some assembly a part, being detested by the Iewes, as well by reason of their staine of their servile condition; as because the tooke part with the Romans, and their domination which was abhorred by the Iewes.

Acts 6:14

Shall destroy,] Steven might well have denounced this desolation of Ierusalem, and the disannulling of Ceremonies, by Daniell prophesies, 9. 26, 27. Or by Christs Matthew 24:2. but yet these witnesses were false: because they witnessed thorow hatred and malice: and besides they concealed part of what was spoken: As that Ierusalem should be destroyed: but in case they were not converted: That the ceremonies should be disannulled; but to give place to a more excellent kinde of service in spirit and truth.

Acts 6:15

As it had beene,] full grace, Majesty and divine splendor,