Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 6:2

"And the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not fit that we should forsake the word of God, and serve tables." — Acts 6:2 (ASV)

Then the twelve. This refers to the apostles. Matthias had been added to them after the apostasy of Judas, which had completed the original number.

The multitude of the disciples. It is not necessary to suppose that all the disciples were convened, which amounted to many thousands. Instead, the business was likely presented to a large number. Or perhaps the multitude here refers only to those who were more particularly interested in the matter and who had been involved in the complaint.

It is not reason. The original words used here properly mean it is not pleasing or agreeable. However, the meaning is evidently that it is not fit or proper. It would be a departure from the purpose of their appointment, which was to preach the gospel and not to attend to the financial affairs of the church.

Leave the word of God. This means that we would neglect or abandon the preaching of the gospel as much as would be necessary, if we personally attended to the distribution of the alms of the church. The gospel is here called the word of God because it is His message; it is what He has spoken, or what He has commanded to be proclaimed to people.

Serve tables. This expression properly means to take care of or provide for the table, or for the daily needs of a family. It is an expression that appropriately applies to a steward or a servant. The word tables, however, is sometimes used with reference to money, as being the place where money was kept for the purpose of exchange, etc., Matthew 21:12; Matthew 25:27. In this context, therefore, the expression means to attend to the financial transactions of the church and to make the proper distribution for the needs of the poor.