In Acts 6 the priorities of the twelve apostles was very clear, they were going to devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word. But, there were some outstanding leadership principles contained in these few verses that are worth taking a look at. First, the twelve apostles worked as a team. The “twelve summoned the congregation…” They said, “it is not good for us…but we will devote…” The twelve apostles were united and worked as a team. Peter was leading the team at this point, but they were moving forward together as a team. Peter’s name is not even mentioned in the passage. A good team leader is not about making a name for himself, but bringing the team together to work effectively.
Second, the leadership wisely dealt with the problem. Most problems do not go away on their own; they must be addressed. The apostles looked into the matter and came up with a great solution. Congregations appreciate leaders that properly deal with problems.
Third, the twelve involved the congregation. They summoned the congregation, and communicated their plan to them. They asked the congregation to select seven people, which they did. Luke also records that their plan “found approval with the whole congregation.” Good leaders were unified as a team, and were move forward with the approval of their congregation.
Fourth, good leaders empower others. The twelve did not try to do everything themselves; they raised up other leaders to do the work of the ministry. In order for them to do the work they were called to do, they had to raise up others to do the other important work. The apostles raised up godly leaders, and then laid hands on them, and empowered them. This freed them up to devote themselves to their priorities, the ministry of the word and to prayer.
The fruit of their leadership was very clear. In verse seven Luke writes that “the word of God kept on spreading; and the number of disciples continue to increase…and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.” Good leadership produces good fruit.