The Work of Deacons (2) The New Testament Church 2017

Previously Deacon from διάκονος (diakonos) A servant, attendant, helper or minister Used about 30 times in NT, mostly translated ministers or servants (27x) A deacon is a qualified and appointed servant entrusted with certain works in a congregation

Previously It is an office, distinguished from simple service Philippians 1:1 1 Timothy 3:8-13, the qualifications imply a distinction They serve under elders (cf. Acts 6:1-7)

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:8-13 Reverent – fitting behavior, with dignity and respect. Not double-tongued – not a hypocrite. Not given to much wine – a need for sobriety at all times. Not greedy for money – content, one who is not corrupt and cannot be bribed. Holding the mystery of the faith with a good conscience – he needs firm convictions.

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:8-13 First tested, then serve – not appointed “on a trial basis”; He has already proven himself to be godly. A deacon will be handling resources and might be dealing with delicate matters. He should have some experience and demonstrated that he can do the work

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:8-13 Blameless – like elders (Titus 1:6-7), his character is such that accusations cannot be verifiably made. A deacon lives a godly life and that is what the congregation and others see. If one’s character is continually challenged, cause to pause…

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:8-13 Husband of one wife – must be a scripturally married man. Like elders, he demonstrates leadership qualities within his home. This quality would exclude single men

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:8-13 Ruling his children and house well – children that are under control. Again, this helps to prove his character as he demonstrates the ability to manage his family. He fulfills his role as God determines. NOTE: Unlike elders, their being “faithful” is not required, simply respectful and under control.

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:8-13 The qualities of their wives (3:11) – the word in the Greek (γυνή, gynē) can mean a woman or a wife. This has prompted some to advocate for women deacons. The whole of scripture does not support this. Another question: Does this apply to just deacons, or the wives of elders as well? If deacon’s wives must prove themselves, surely elders wives must also

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:11, their wives must be: Reverent (cf. 3:8, Philippians 4:8) – she conducts herself properly and with respect for God and her role. As leaders represent the Lord’s body, they do not need wives who detract from that in any way.

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:11, their wives must be: Not slanderers – gossips, “devils” (Titus 2:3, 1 Timothy 5:13, etc.) Needed for confidentiality, also they defend the Lord’s body before others Temperate – living under control. Content and not competing materially. Disciplined. Again, this is a reflection on the spiritual stability of the home

Qualifications for Deacons 1 Timothy 3:11, their wives must be: Faithful in all things – as a Christian, she understands her role. She understands and fulfills her role to her husband and children This will simply make the work of godly leaders easier. Also, the fact that a deacon marries a faithful Christian (or has converted her) is a testament to his character.

The Work of Deacons Not specified, but implied in the word and qualities they must possess – they serve the congregation under the direction of the elders. Cf. Matthew 20:25-28 NOT necessarily “future elders in training”, though often one will qualify as a deacon, then later mature to serve as an elder He MAY teach, but it is not a requirement.

The Reward of Deacons 1 Timothy 3:13 They obtain for themselves good standing and great boldness in the faith. Serving builds you up spiritually and promotes respect. When done properly, God is pleased (cf. Matthew 25:21, etc.) 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, they are to be recognized and highly esteemed

May we never take this (or any) work lightly! As with the work of elders, the work of deacons is important. May we never take this (or any) work lightly!