The laying on of hands signifies ordination. These men have been set apart for a specific task, just like the Levites (Numbers 8:10) and Joshua (Numbers 27:18–23). Although the term deacon
does not appear in this passage, the context certainly suggests that these men are servants on behalf of Christ and the work which they are given to do is work that fits with the office of deacon.1 In later years Paul delineates the qualifications of deacons (1 Timothy 3:8–13) and assumes their presence in churches (Philippians 1:1).2
6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.