In APA 7 format, present a 2000-2500-word document (not including title page, abstract,
or references) describing in detail the problem the first-century church was experiencing
in Acts 6:1-7. Using exegetical analysis, demonstrate how the disciples used specific
leadership strategies to resolve the complex issue. Draw connections between leadership
theories presented in the text to the methods used in the scripture. Describe how this
might be applied in modern times to help mitigate negative organizational member
behaviors and to encourage the modeling of more positive organizational citizenship
behaviors. Support all of your work with scripture, the texts, and other outside scholarly
sources.
Requirements: APA format, 2000-2500 words (this does not include the title page,
abstract or references).
, Abstract
This paper presents an exegetical and leadership analysis of Acts 6:1–7, which
documents an early organizational challenge faced by the first-century church. The
passage highlights how the apostles addressed complaints regarding the unequal
distribution of resources to widows, demonstrating principles of servant leadership,
delegation, and organizational restructuring. Through a detailed examination of the text,
this paper identifies how biblical leadership strategies mirror contemporary leadership
theories such as transformational, servant, and situational leadership. Finally, modern
applications are explored, showing how these principles can guide leaders in resolving
workplace conflicts, promoting fairness, and cultivating positive organizational
citizenship behaviors (OCBs) in today’s context.
Introduction
Acts 6:1–7 provides a profound example of early church leadership navigating internal
conflict during rapid organizational growth. The early church, following the resurrection
of Christ and the descent of the Holy Spirit, experienced exponential expansion and the
inclusion of diverse cultural groups. However, this growth brought tensions between the
Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) and Hebraic (Hebrew-speaking) Jews, particularly
concerning the equitable distribution of food to widows. The apostles, confronted with
this issue, implemented leadership strategies that preserved unity, delegated
responsibilities, and reinforced organizational focus. This passage not only illustrates the
apostolic capacity for adaptive leadership but also serves as a timeless model for modern
leaders managing complexity, diversity, and organizational change.