In Acts 6:1–6, the early church appointed seven deacons because of a dispute between the Hebrew and Hellenist (Greek-speaking) Jews. The Hellenists complained that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food.

To solve the problem, the apostles appointed seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, to oversee the fair distribution of relief, especially to widows, so the apostles could focus on prayer and the ministry of the word.