(a) What social problem brought about the appointment of the deacons in the early church?
Explanation
(a) There were many problems that were brought about as a result of the neglect of the Hellenists who murmured against the Jews for not allowing them to participate in the daily distribution of food. This problem nearly shook the foundation of the early church until the apostles found a lasting solution to it. The apostles said that it would not be possible for them to-supervise the sharing of the food and at the same time, administer the gospel. They, therefore, said that the church should appoint men of high repute, full of the holy spirit and wisdom to take the responsibility of sharing the daily food. This suggestion was accepted by the church and seven men were selected and presented before the apostle.They prayed and laid hands on them. Prominent among the men selected was the first martyr, Stephen.
(b) The five social problems facing the church today are:
(i) There is no unity among the leaders of the present day churches. They are after one another.
(ii) There is equally the problem of polygamy.
(iii) Proliferation of churches and doctrines often cause confusion among members.
(iv) Love of material gain, stealing the church money and of course modern civilization is also militating against the modern day church.
(v) Local customs which are interfering with the Christian practices is another problem.