Topical Encyclopedia Parmenas is recognized as one of the seven men chosen to serve as deacons in the early Christian church, as recorded in the Book of Acts. His selection is noted in Acts 6:5, where he is listed among those appointed to address the needs of the Hellenistic Jewish widows, ensuring fair distribution of food and resources. The passage reads: "This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism" (Acts 6:5).The context of Parmenas' appointment is significant in the early church's history. As the number of disciples increased, a dispute arose between the Hellenistic Jews and the Hebraic Jews regarding the daily distribution of food. The apostles, seeking to maintain their focus on prayer and the ministry of the word, proposed the selection of seven reputable men, full of the Spirit and wisdom, to oversee this task. Parmenas was among those chosen, indicating his standing and reputation within the early Christian community. While the Bible does not provide further details about Parmenas' life or ministry beyond his appointment, early church tradition holds that he remained faithful to his calling. Some traditions suggest that Parmenas later became a missionary and suffered martyrdom, although these accounts are not corroborated by the biblical text. Parmenas' inclusion in the list of the seven deacons highlights the early church's commitment to addressing practical needs within the community while maintaining a focus on spiritual growth and evangelism. His role underscores the importance of service and the diverse gifts within the body of Christ, as articulated in passages such as 1 Corinthians 12, which speaks to the variety of gifts and roles within the church. In summary, Parmenas is remembered as a dedicated servant in the early church, chosen for his wisdom and filled with the Holy Spirit, contributing to the unity and growth of the early Christian community. His example serves as a testament to the vital role of service and administration in the life of the church. Nave's Topical Index Acts 6:5And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: Nave's Topical Index Library Acts VI Acts v. 34 Stephen the First Christian Martyr The Same Hippolytus on the Seventy Apostles. The Institution of Deacons, and the History of Stephen. Resources Who was Prochorus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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