The first strife in the church was between the Hebrews and the Hellenists (Jews who only spoke Greek), over the distribution to the needy saints.  The way the apostles handled the contention led to the word of God spreading and many being obedient to the gospel.

The apostles said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables” (v. 2). They exercised great wisdom in asking the disciples to select seven men to take care of the business of serving tables. Scholars tell us that the seven men had Grecian names and one of them, Nicolas, was a Gentile proselyte to the Jewish faith. Who better to look after the needs of Hellenists than those of the same culture? A possible division was avoided and this contributed to the multiplication of the disciples. In the longest prayer of Jesus, He said, “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one,...that the world may believe that You sent Me” (Jn. 17:20,21).

Although unity of the believers  contributed to growth, it was through the teaching of the Gospel that people were converted. The apostles were able to give themselves “to prayer and to the ministry of the word” (v. 4), because they did not have to be burdened with the daily distribution. Notice that “the word of God spread” and “a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith” (v. 7). The gospel is God’s drawing power, and it is by obedience to it that men are saved (Heb. 5:9). Paul would not use human wisdom, nor oratorical skills to draw people, because he knew what men are drawn with, they are drawn to (1 Cor. 2:4,5).

Stephen, one of the seven men chosen to serve tables also boldly taught God’s word and confirmed it with “great wonders and signs among the people” (v. 8). When brethren are united, full of faith and the message of the Spirit, the number of disciples will grow!