1. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 12/03/2006 Dr. Dane Boyles

2. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” Introduction In Philippians 1:1, Paul is writing from a Roman prison and greets the church at Philippi. 1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (Phil 1:1)

3. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” Paul gives us a quick glance of the organization of the church. The organization is composed of saints, bishops, and deacons.

4. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  Definition The word ‘deacon’ comes from the Greek word diakonos.  Diakonos: “one who executes the commands of another, especially of a master” (Thayer).  Deacon refers to a position or service performed by duly qualified individuals.

5. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  The History of Deacons (Acts 6:1-7). The first time we see the use of this word is in Acts 6. 2 “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables”. (Acts 6:2)

6. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” The apostles gave the qualifications:  They were to choose men: –full of the Holy Spirit –full of wisdom.  These are men who live their lives under the control & full influence of God’s Spirit.

7. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  The Greatness of Jesus’ Humility (John 13:1-5). In John 13, leading up to the crucifixion, Jesus demonstrates the full extent of his love. 4 … he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. (John 13:4)

8. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. (John 13:5)

9. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  Jesus was concerned about eternal issues and they were obsessed with rank, position, protocol and authority.  By washing grimy, stinky feet He has forever removed any stigma that men associate with service.

10. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” Titles reveal expectations! If you are thinking of becoming a deacon, you need to ask yourself four questions: 1.Have I visualized what God wants me to do?

11. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 2. Have I clarified my priorities? 35 ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35)

12. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 3. Have I prepared for this calling? 20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. (Gal 2:20)

13. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 4. Have I been anticipating with fresh zeal a mission from God?  A sense of deep purpose  A brightly burning sense of mission

14. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  Jesus was unjustly treated. 34 “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34)

15. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  Qualities of a Deacon (1 Timothy 3) 8 Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. (1 Timothy 3:8-9)

16. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. (1 Timothy 3:10)

17. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 12 A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus. (1 Tim 3:12-13)

18. These qualities can be arranged in four categories:

19. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve”  The Deacon’s Wife (v. 11) 11 In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. (1 Timothy 3:11)

20. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” The deacon’s wife has to be spiritual as well.  worthy of respect – people look up to her.  not malicious talkers – not a gossiper.  temperate – clear-headed.  trustworthy- faithful in all things.

21. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” Behind every spiritual man is a great woman. Conclusion We can all be servants. We can all be humble. We can all be role models for someone else.

22. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” If you never have made that commitment, now is the time. Come to Jesus now!

23. “Deacons: The Men Who Serve” 12/03/2006 Dr. Dane Boyles