Acts 6:4
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.
Original Language Analysis
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
προσευχῇ
to prayer
G4335
προσευχῇ
to prayer
Strong's:
G4335
Word #:
4 of 10
prayer (worship); by implication, an oratory (chapel)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
διακονίᾳ
to the ministry
G1248
διακονίᾳ
to the ministry
Strong's:
G1248
Word #:
7 of 10
attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Acts 1:14These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.Acts 2:42And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.2 Timothy 4:2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.Romans 1:9For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;
Historical Context
This division of labor protected apostolic teaching ministry while ensuring practical needs were met. The model influenced later church office development.
Questions for Reflection
- How do prayer and Word ministry relate to each other in pastoral calling?
- What does this prioritization teach about protecting essential ministries?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The apostles committed to 'give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.' This prioritization established the pattern of pastoral focus. 'Continually' (proskartereo) implies devoted persistence. Prayer and Word constitute the shepherd's primary calling.