Super-Saint or Servant or …

• He was a man of great boldness, willing to stand for truth in the face of all opposition.
• He was full of faith and had indisputable wisdom.
• He was a great historian, well versed in the pentateuch and the prophets, especially concerning the Christ.
• He witnessed the glory of God and saw Jesus resurrected.
• His countenance shone like that of an angel.
• He forgave his enemies for the most appalling sin against him, embodying Jesus’ prophecy, “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you.”
• The assault against him started the first widespread persecution against the Church, precipitating the first major evangelistic campaign throughout the nations.
• He was the Church’s first martyr.

By now you have guessed that the man is Stephen.  If he was sent into any of our modern day cities he would surely cause a stir.  His ministry was accompanied by signs and wonders, his wisdom and insight about Jesus was so comprehensive that no man or religious group could sustain a debate with him.  Truly, Stephen was a remarkable saint among remarkable saints.

But I have yet to disclose the characteristic of his ministry that eclipses every exploit aforementioned: He was the man who served the tables at church.  The twelve apostles wanted to devote themselves to teaching and prayer, they needed someone to distribute food and povisions fairly, and Stephen, “full of faith and the Holy Spirit,” was just the man for the job.

This reveals a couple of things about apostolic power.  First, the early church was walking in such power, that even those appointed to administrative/helps positions had exceptional spiritual authority and understanding.  I firmly believe that the day is again coming when ushers, children’s pastors and church janitors will walk in miraculous signs and wonders.  Second, he was not offended or unsatisfied with his function in the Body of Christ.  A man with abilities such as Stephen surely could have been teaching with the other apostles.  Yet he was content serving tables.  He settled into his less honorable position knowing that is was necessary (“the eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you.’ On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable.” 1 Cor. 12:21).  That being so, one of the most powerful ministries in the New Testament was walked out by a servant.

Too often, the Church follows the model of the world;  first one to the top wins!  Platform ministry is esteemed as the greatest of all callings, the pinnacle of Religious duty.  We would do well to follow the model of Stephen and start serving more tables.