John Calvin Commentary Acts 6:3

"Look ye out therefore, brethren, from among you seven men of good report, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business." — Acts 6:3 (ASV)

Therefore, brothers, look out. Now we see for what purpose deacons were appointed. The word itself is indeed general, yet it is properly understood to refer to those who are stewards for the poor. By this it is apparent how shamelessly the Papists mock God and men, who assign to their deacons no other office than this: to have charge of the paten and chalice.

Surely, we need no argument to prove that they agree on no point with the apostles. But if readers desire to learn more about this point, they may refer to our Institution, chapter 8. Regarding this present passage, the Church is permitted to choose. For it is tyrannical if any one man appoints or makes ministers as he pleases.

Therefore, this is the most lawful way: that those should be chosen by common vote who are to undertake any public office in the Church. And the apostles prescribe what kind of persons should be chosen, namely, men of proven honesty and good reputation, men endowed with wisdom and other gifts of the Spirit.

And this is the middle way between tyranny and disorderly freedom: that nothing should be done without the consent and approval of the people, yet in such a way that the pastors moderate and govern this action, so that their authority may serve as a bridle to restrain the people, lest they overstep their bounds too much.

Meanwhile, it is worth noting that the apostles prescribe an order to the faithful, lest they appoint any except those who are fit. For we do God a significant injury if we accept anyone who comes along to govern His house. Therefore, we must exercise great care that we choose no one for the holy office of the Church unless we have first tested him.

The number seven is applied to the present necessity, lest anyone should think that there is some mystery contained in it.

When Luke says, full of the Spirit and wisdom, I interpret it this way: it is required that they should be equipped both with other gifts of the Spirit and also with wisdom. Without this wisdom, that office cannot be performed well, enabling them to beware of the trickery of those men who, being too inclined to begging, demand what is necessary for the poor brothers, and also of the slanders of those who constantly backbite, even when no reason is given to them.

For that office is not only difficult, but also subject to many ungodly complaints.