1. Mike Mazzalongo #7 – The Role & Work of Deacons - Part 1

2. Deacons Diakonos = Servant Bondslaves Boyslaves Domestics Subordinates

3. Examples Luke 10:40 Martha “Served” Acts 6 They “Served” Food Romans 13:4 Messenger /Courier Romans 16:1 Phoebe (Courier)

4. Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. - Acts 6:1

5. So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. Therefore, brethren, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. - Acts 6:2-3

6. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” The statement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch - Acts 6:4-5

7. Acts 1:1-6 A. Limited Number

8. Acts 1:1-6 A.Limited Number B. They were selected

9. Acts 1:1-6 A.Limited Number B.They were selected C. They were men

10. Acts 1:1-6 A.Limited Number B.They were selected C.They were men D. They had charge

11. Acts 1:1-6 A.Limited Number B.They were selected C.They were men D.They had charge E. The task was singular

12. Acts 1:1-6 F. Specific qualifications –Good reputation –Full of spirit –Full of wisdom –Take charge

13. Acts 1:1-6 G. Different kinds of men

14. Acts 1:1-6 H. Ordained/Commended

15. Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: - Philippians 1:1

16. Summary 1. Spiritually mature, talented, appointed

17. Summary 1.Spiritually mature, talented, appointed 2. Selected by, from and for congregation

18. Summary 1.Spiritually mature, talented, appointed 2.Selected by, from and for congregation 3.Authority is connected to service

19. Summary 1.Spiritually mature, talented, appointed 2.Selected by, from and for congregation 3.Authority is connected to service 4. No Job/No Deacon

20. Summary 1.Spiritually mature, talented, appointed 2.Selected by, from and for congregation 3.Authority is connected to service 4.No Job/No Deacon 5. No Group Authority