Observation

This question was straightforward and it attracted many candidates. Many of them gave a proper narrative of what transpired between the apostles and the early converts regarding the sharing of resources which gave rise to the appointments of the deacons. The part B was better answered as candidates used their everyday experience of how disagreement and fraction happens in the church to draw up their answers. Other points include;

i. Life in the early church was characterized by communal living, because they were of one heart and soul.
ii. The rich among them donated freely their properties for the upkeep of the poor and needy.
iii. They maintained a common fund from which items were given out such that no member lacked anything nor claimed a property as exclusively his/hers.
iv. In no time, the church began to grow involving Hebrews, Greeks and people from other nations.
v. The increase in number of converts called for a new way of doing things to satisfy the congregation.
vi. Not long after, the non- Jews complained bitterly accusing the Hebrew (Jews) in the daily distribution of the relief items from the common fund.
vii. The apostles then summoned and announced to the disciples that they could not give up preaching to serve tables.
viii. The apostles suggested to the elders to choose seven men outside them to be in charge of daily distribution.
ix. These men should be men of good reputation, full of the spirit and wisdom.
x. Seven men were when chosen namely, (Stephen, Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenaus and Nicolaus.

Factors that can generate conflict in the church
i. Greed/Embezzlement of funds
ii. Lack of fairness in the distribution of relief items/properties
iii. Failure to forgive one another.
iv. Indolence and covetousness.
v. Lack of respect or regard for constituted authority.
vi. Jealousy and envy.
vii. Immoral life of church members.
viii. Negligence of duty.
ix. Discrimination in the church.
x. Gossip/backbiting