Acts 6:1-4 King James Version (KJV)
6 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.
3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

Acts 6:1-4 Amplified Bible (AMP)

6 Now about this time, when the number of the disciples was greatly increasing, complaint was made by the Hellenists (the Greek-speaking Jews) against the [native] Hebrews because their widows were being overlooked and neglected in the daily ministration (distribution of relief).
2 So the Twelve [apostles] convened the multitude of the disciples and said, It is not seemly or desirable or right that we should have to give up or neglect [preaching] the Word of God in order to attend to serving at tables and superintending the distribution of food.
3 Therefore select out from among yourselves, brethren, seven men of good and attested character and repute, full of the [Holy] Spirit and wisdom, whom we may assign to look after this business and duty.
4 But we will continue to devote ourselves steadfastly to prayer and the ministry of the Word.

Amplified Bible (AMP) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation



These are my thoughts, please share yours.

1 They all lived within the same community at this time and they gave the people what they needed. There were widows going without because of the high numbers they were simply over looked by the apostles.

2 Everyone was summoned not just the twelve. The twelve wanted the people to know their focus was the word of God and sharing the gospel and this was not going to change but they also saw the problem and knew it needed an answer.

3 They allow the people to appoint, they give them guidelines, they needed to be strong Christian men and men up to the task and bring honor to the duty.

4 The disciples decide their place is still in prayer and the word; this was a big responsibly in its self and was not one that is to become second. These knew men became known as deacons serving the peoples need, the disciples took care of the spiritually needs.