Deacons play a crucial role in the church, serving others and supporting the ministry. The Bible outlines the qualifications and duties of a deacon. Today, we will explore what the Bible says about being a deacon and the role it plays in the church community.
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What Does The Bible Say About Being A Deacon
Acts 6:3
“Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;”
This verse highlights the qualities necessary for someone to be appointed as a deacon. They should have a good reputation, be filled with the Holy Spirit, and possess wisdom. These characteristics are important in serving the church and carrying out the responsibilities of a deacon.
A deacon’s role is to assist and support the needs of the congregation, both spiritually and practically. They serve as servants of God, ministering to the body of believers and ensuring that the work of the church is carried out effectively.
1 Timothy 3:8-10
“Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless.”
These verses provide further instructions on the qualities of a deacon. They should be reverent, honest in speech, free from addiction, and not motivated by a love of money. They must also hold firm to their faith and have a clear conscience.
Prior to being appointed as deacons, individuals should be tested and proven to be blameless in their character and conduct. This ensures that they are suitable for the important role of serving and leading within the church.
1 Timothy 3:12
“Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of a deacon’s family life. They should be faithful in marriage and capable of leading their children and household in a responsible and godly manner. The family of a deacon is a reflection of their ability to serve and lead within the church.
By maintaining a stable and loving family life, deacons can provide a positive example to the congregation and effectively carry out their role of supporting and ministering to the church community.
Philippians 1:1
“Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:”
This verse acknowledges the role of deacons within the church community. Alongside bishops, they are mentioned as significant members of the body of Christ. Deacons have a specific function and responsibility in serving and supporting the saints.
By including deacons in his greeting, Paul highlights their vital role in the church and their partnership in the work of ministry. They work alongside other leaders to fulfill the mission of the church and care for the spiritual and practical needs of the believers.
1 Peter 4:10-11
“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
These verses remind deacons and all believers of their responsibility to use their spiritual gifts for the benefit of others. Deacons are called to serve and minister to the church, utilizing the gifts God has given them.
Whether it be speaking or serving, deacons should do so according to God’s standards and with the strength that comes from Him. In all their actions, the ultimate goal is to bring glory to God and exalt the name of Jesus Christ.
Acts 20:28
“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”
This verse reminds deacons of their role as overseers and shepherds of the church. They are entrusted with the care and guidance of God’s people. It is a weighty responsibility to lead and nurture the congregation according to God’s Word.
Just as a shepherd watches over and tends to the flock, deacons are called to care for the spiritual well-being of the believers under their charge. They are to ensure that the church remains faithful to God and His teachings, guiding the congregation in the paths of righteousness.
1 Timothy 3:13
“For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.”
These words highlight the rewards that come with faithful service as deacons. Those who faithfully fulfill their duties and responsibilities as deacons will not only have a good reputation among the church but will also experience a deepening of their faith and confidence in Christ.
By faithfully serving the church, deacons have the opportunity to grow in their own spiritual walk and witness the transformative power of Christ in their own lives, increasing their boldness and trust in Him.
Romans 12:7
“If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;”
This verse encourages deacons to embrace their specific roles and gifts within the body of Christ. Some deacons may be called to serve in practical ways, using their skills to meet the needs of the church community. Others may have the gift of teaching, enabling them to instruct and edify the believers.
Deacons are called to recognize and use their unique abilities, offering their service and teaching as a means of glorifying God and building up His people.
1 Corinthians 16:15
“I urge you, brethren–you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints.”
This verse commends the dedication and commitment of the household of Stephanas to the ministry of the saints. It serves as an example for deacons to follow in their own service to the church and the believers.
Deacons are called to wholeheartedly devote themselves to the ministry of the saints, demonstrating a genuine love and care for the welfare of God’s people. Their service should be marked by selflessness and a willingness to go above and beyond for the sake of others.
Matthew 5:16
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse reminds deacons of their responsibility to be a shining example in their service to others. By carrying out their duties with excellence and displaying Christ-like character, deacons have the opportunity to draw others to God and bring glory to Him.
Deacons are called to embody the love, compassion, and servant-heartedness of Christ in their interactions with others, allowing their good works to point others towards the heavenly Father.
1 Corinthians 12:4-6
“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.”
This passage emphasizes the diversity of gifts and ministries within the body of Christ. As deacons, it is important to recognize that each individual has unique skills and abilities to contribute to the functioning of the church.
Deacons should value the variety of gifts and talents within the congregation, understanding that it is God who supplies and empowers each person for service. By acknowledging and appreciating the diverse contributions of others, deacons can help create a unified and harmonious church community.
James 2:14-17
“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”
These verses highlight the importance of combining faith with tangible acts of service. Deacons are not only called to believe in Christ, but also to demonstrate their faith through tangible care for those in need.
Faith without action is meaningless. Deacons are called to actively respond to the needs of the church community, providing practical help and support to those who are vulnerable or lacking basic necessities. True faith is alive and visible through acts of love and service.
Galatians 6:10
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
This verse encourages deacons to seize every opportunity to do good, not only to fellow believers but also to all people. However, it particularly emphasizes the importance of caring for and supporting the household of faith.
Deacons should be vigilant in seeking ways to demonstrate kindness, compassion, and practical assistance to fellow believers. Through their acts of love and generosity, deacons contribute to the spiritual and emotional well-being of the church community.
1 Peter 5:2
“Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;”
In this verse, deacons are encouraged to take on the role of shepherds, caring for the spiritual needs of the congregation. They are to serve as overseers, looking after the people of God with a genuine heart and sincere devotion.
Deacons should fulfill their responsibilities willingly, without any sense of force or coercion. Their motivation should not be personal gain or ambition, but rather a genuine eagerness to serve God and His people wholeheartedly.
1 Corinthians 15:58
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”
These words provide encouragement and motivation for deacons to remain steadfast and committed in their service to the Lord. Despite any challenges or difficulties they may face, deacons are called to persevere and continue to abound in the work of the Lord.
Deacons must remember that their labor is not in vain. Every act of service, no matter how small, is seen and valued by God. The impact of their efforts may not always be immediately apparent, but they can trust that their service has eternal significance.
1 Peter 5:4
“and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.”
This verse reminds deacons of the reward that awaits them in the future. The Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, will one day return and bestow upon faithful deacons a crown of glory that will never fade.
Deacons are called to persevere in their service, knowing that their ultimate reward is not found in earthly recognition but in the eternal glory and honor bestowed by their heavenly Master.
1 Peter 5:5
“Likewise, you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'”
This verse emphasizes the importance of humility in the role of a deacon. Deacons should submit to the guidance and wisdom of their elders, recognizing that their service is not about personal recognition or power, but about selflessly meeting the needs of others.
Humility allows deacons to effectively serve alongside one another, valuing the contribution of every member of the body of Christ. By humbling themselves, deacons open themselves up to the abundant grace and favor of God.
Hebrews 6:10
“For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”
These words provide assurance to deacons that their service and labor of love for the name of God will never go unnoticed or unrewarded. God is just and remembers all their efforts in ministering to the saints.
Deacons can take comfort in knowing that their service is valuable and meaningful to God. Even when their service may go unnoticed by others, they can have confidence that their Heavenly Father sees and appreciates their determination and sacrifice.
Matthew 20:26-27
“Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave.”
In these verses, Jesus teaches his disciples about the true nature of greatness in His kingdom. He declares that those who desire to be great must be willing to serve others and take on the role of a servant or even a slave.
As deacons, the focus should not be on seeking positions of prominence or authority, but on humbly serving the needs and interests of others. By following the example of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve, deacons can fulfill their calling with humility and selflessness.
Mark 10:43-45
“Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
These verses further emphasize the importance of servant leadership in the role of a deacon. Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom is not determined by power or authority but by one’s willingness to serve others sacrificially.
By imitating the example of Jesus, deacons are called to selflessly give of themselves for the benefit of others, just as Christ gave His life as a ransom for many. This selfless and sacrificial service reflects the heart of the gospel and brings honor to God.
Colossians 3:23-24
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
These verses encourage deacons to approach their service with wholeheartedness, giving their best in all that they do. Regardless of the task or who they serve, deacons are called to serve as if they are serving the Lord Himself.
Deacons can find motivation and fulfillment in knowing that their service is ultimately for the Lord. Their dedication and labor are not in vain, for they will receive a heavenly reward as heirs of God’s inheritance.
Hebrews 13:17
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”
In this verse, believers are instructed to willingly submit to the authority and leadership of those who watch over their souls. This includes deacons, who have a responsibility to care for and guide the congregation.
Deacons should carry out their duties with joy and not with a heavy burden, as their service directly impacts the spiritual well-being of the believers. Openness and submission to their leadership will contribute to the overall health and growth of the church community.
Romans 12:8
“he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.”
In this verse, different areas of service within the body of Christ are highlighted, including those relevant to the role of deacons. Deacons are called to lead with diligence, giving careful attention to their responsibilities and aligning their actions with God’s will.
Furthermore, deacons are called to demonstrate mercy and compassion with cheerfulness. This implies that deacons should approach their role with kindness and a joyful heart, seeking to uplift and encourage those they serve.