Deacons play an important role in serving the church and its members. The Bible outlines their responsibilities and qualifications. Today, we’ll look at what scripture says about the duties of deacons and their impact on the church.
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What Does The Bible Say About Deacon Duties
1 Timothy 3:8-13
“Deacons, likewise, are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.”
This passage outlines the qualifications and responsibilities of deacons in the church. Deacons are called to be respectable, honest, and faithful individuals who hold strong to the core teachings of the faith. They must undergo testing to ensure their character is suitable for the position. Additionally, deacons are to maintain good relationships within their families and households. Those who faithfully serve as deacons are commended and grow in their faith.
Being a deacon is not just a title or position; it requires a commitment to living a life of integrity and service. Deacons are called to embody the values of the Christian faith and demonstrate them in their actions and interactions with others. The role of a deacon is not limited to being a servant within the church but extends to being a role model in their personal lives as well.
Acts 6:1-7
“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.”
This passage describes the establishment of the role of deacons in the early Christian church. As the number of disciples grew, the apostles recognized the need to delegate certain responsibilities in order to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word. Seven men full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom were chosen to oversee the distribution of food to widows and ensure fairness and equality within the community. Through their faithful service, the message of God spread, and many people came to believe in Jesus Christ.
The example set by the early church demonstrates the importance of delegation and the role of deacons in ensuring the smooth operation of the church community. Deacons are called to attend to practical matters and meet the needs of the congregation, allowing the spiritual leaders to focus on teaching and prayer. This passage also highlights the significance of choosing individuals filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom, as their character and integrity play a crucial role in fulfilling their duties as deacons.
Philippians 1:1
“Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons.”
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul includes deacons as part of the greeting, recognizing their important role within the church community. This brief mention underscores the significance of deacons in supporting and serving alongside the overseers in caring for the congregation. The inclusion of deacons in this greeting demonstrates their integral position within the church and their contribution to the overall ministry.
As servants of Christ, deacons are called to assist in various aspects of ministry and to serve as a bridge between the leadership and the congregation. Their presence and involvement are essential in fostering unity and ensuring the needs of the community are met. This verse serves as a reminder of the value and importance of the deaconate in the early Christian church and beyond.
Romans 16:1-2
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.”
In this passage, Paul introduces Phoebe as a deaconess in the church, highlighting her exemplary character and service to others. He asks the believers in Rome to receive and support her, recognizing her as a valuable member of the Christian community. Phoebe’s generosity and ministry have been a blessing to many individuals, including Paul himself.
Phoebe serves as an inspiring example of a woman fulfilling the role of a deacon within the early church. Her position as a deaconess acknowledges the valuable contributions and leadership that women have made and continue to make within the body of Christ. This verse challenges traditional gender roles and reinforces the importance of valuing and recognizing the ministry of women in the church.
1 Peter 4:10-11
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
This passage emphasizes that every believer has been given gifts by God, which they are to use to serve others. Deacons, as faithful stewards of God’s grace, are called to utilize their gifts and abilities to bless and minister to the congregation. Whether through speaking or serving, deacons are to do so in a manner that reflects God’s character and words. Ultimately, the purpose of their service is to glorify God through Jesus Christ.
This verse offers a broader perspective on the role of deacons, reminding them that their position is not just about fulfilling duties but about being conduits of God’s grace and love. Deacons are to approach their responsibilities with a servant’s heart, relying on God’s strength to carry out their tasks. Their service should ultimately point others to the greatness and glory of God.
Luke 22:26
“But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.”
In this verse, Jesus teaches his disciples about true leadership and servanthood. He contrasts the typical worldly expectations of greatness and authority with the humble and selfless nature of true leadership. The greatest among believers is not one who seeks power and control, but one who submits to the role of a servant, following the example set by Jesus himself.
Deacons, as leaders within the church, are called to embody this servant leadership. Their role is not about seeking recognition or asserting authority, but about humbly serving and caring for the needs of the congregation. By adopting the posture of a servant, deacons exemplify the teachings of Jesus and create an atmosphere of unity and love within the church.
Acts 20:28
“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”
As overseers of the church, deacons are entrusted with the responsibility to care for and protect the congregation. Like shepherds, they are to watch over the members of the church, ensuring their spiritual well-being and providing guidance and support. Deacons are to be diligent in fulfilling their role, recognizing the precious blood of Jesus that was shed to bring salvation to the church.
This verse highlights the importance of the pastoral aspect of the deaconate. While deacons may not have the primary responsibility of teaching or preaching, they play a vital role in guiding and nurturing the spiritual growth of the church community. Deacons, as overseers, are called to exercise wisdom, compassion, and love as they shepherd the flock of God.
Ephesians 4:11-12
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
The role of deacons within the church aligns with the broader purpose of the various ministries and positions that Christ has established. Deacons are part of the equipping process, helping to prepare and empower believers for acts of service. Their involvement contributes to the growth and edification of the body of Christ as they support and facilitate the works of service carried out by the congregation.
This verse reinforces the collaborative nature of ministry and emphasizes the interdependence of different roles and gifts within the church. Deacons work alongside other leaders to fulfill the overall mission and calling of the church. Their contributions are integral in fostering a healthy and functioning body of Christ.
1 Timothy 5:17-18
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.””
This passage emphasizes the importance of honoring and supporting those who serve in leadership roles within the church. It specifically mentions the elders who lead and teach, highlighting their value and deserving of double honor. The reference to not muzzling an ox and the worker deserving his wages underscores the principle of fair compensation for their labor.
Deacons, as part of the church leadership, are to be recognized and respected for their service and dedication. This verse reminds the congregation to appreciate the commitment and effort put forth by those serving in leadership positions, including deacons, and to provide them with the support they need. Honoring and caring for deacons is not only a demonstration of gratitude but also a means to ensure the vitality and effectiveness of their ministry.
Galatians 6:10
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
This verse encourages believers to seize every opportunity to do good and show kindness to all people. It places an emphasis on caring for fellow believers, who are considered part of the family of God. Deacons, in their service, must embody this spirit of love, compassion, and generosity.
Deacons have a particular responsibility to ensure the needs of the church community are met, both spiritually and practically. They are called to demonstrate a genuine concern for the well-being of others and actively seek ways to offer support, encouragement, and assistance. This verse serves as a reminder for deacons to prioritize acts of kindness and charity, not only within the church but also in the wider community.
John 13:14-15
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
During the Last Supper, Jesus humbly washed the feet of his disciples, demonstrating the essence of servant leadership. He then commands his disciples to serve one another in the same manner. Deacons are to emulate this act of selflessness and humility, recognizing the example set by Jesus.
As deacons serve within the church, they are to cultivate a heart of humility and be willing to engage in any task that promotes the well-being of others. This verse challenges deacons to lay aside any sense of entitlement or superiority and instead approach their service with a sacrificial and servant-hearted attitude.
Matthew 20:26-28
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
In this passage, Jesus once again emphasizes the principle of servant leadership. He contrasts the world’s understanding of greatness and power with the Kingdom of God’s perspective. True greatness, according to Jesus, comes from serving others. Jesus himself exemplified this by laying down his life as a ransom for many.
Deacons are called to embrace this selfless mentality of servanthood, recognizing that their position is not one of privilege or superiority. Instead, they are to put the needs of others before their own, mirroring the example of Jesus. This verse challenges deacons to redefine their understanding of greatness and to strive for a leadership that is marked by humility, love, and sacrificial service.
Mark 10:43-45
“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Similar to Matthew 20:26-28, this passage records Jesus’ teaching on servant leadership. He once again emphasizes that greatness in the Kingdom of God comes from serving others, not from seeking authority or recognition. Jesus himself models this servant-heartedness by giving his life as a ransom for many.
Deacons, as leaders within the church, are called to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and live out this servant leadership. Their primary focus should be on meeting the needs of others, rather than seeking personal gain or prominence. This verse challenges deacons to examine their motives and aspirations and to align themselves with the selfless example set by Christ.
James 1:22
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of not just hearing or knowing the Word of God but also actively living it out in daily life. Deacons, as leaders and servants, are to be doers of the Word, setting an example of faithfulness and obedience to the teachings of Jesus.
Deacons must strive to integrate the Word of God into their actions, attitudes, and decisions. They are called to demonstrate integrity and consistency in their Christian walk, allowing their faith to impact every aspect of their lives. This verse serves as a reminder for deacons to prioritize personal transformation and to actively apply the principles of the Bible in their service and interactions with others.
1 Peter 5:2-3
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”
As shepherds of God’s flock, deacons are called to care for and protect the congregation entrusted to their oversight. This passage emphasizes the importance of willingly and eagerly fulfilling this responsibility, without seeking personal gain or exerting control over others. Deacons are to be examples of Christ-like behavior and character to the flock.
This verse highlights the vital role of deacons in providing spiritual guidance and support to the church community. Deacons are to embody the qualities of selflessness, humility, and integrity in their service. Their motivation should stem from a genuine desire to serve and care for others, rather than a pursuit of personal gain or recognition.
Titus 1:7-9
“Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.”
This passage offers guidance for both overseers and deacons in terms of their character and conduct. It emphasizes the importance of being blameless, hospitable, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. Deacons are to hold firmly to the teachings of the faith, being knowledgeable and ready to encourage others in sound doctrine.
This verse highlights the high standards of character that deacons are called to uphold. They must strive to live a life that reflects the values and teachings of the Christian faith. Deacons are to be well-versed in Scripture, able to teach and provide sound guidance. Their lives should be marked by integrity and righteousness, drawing others closer to God through their example.
1 Corinthians 3:7-8
“So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.”
This verse reminds deacons and all believers that it is ultimately God who brings growth and transformation. While deacons play a crucial role in planting and nurturing the seeds of faith in the hearts of individuals, their efforts must always be grounded in the recognition that God is the one who produces the growth.
Deacons are to approach their service with humility and dependence on God’s power and guidance. They are to labor diligently and faithfully, knowing that their work will be rewarded according to their efforts. This verse serves as a reminder to deacons to remain focused on their purpose and to trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness.
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
As leaders within the church community, deacons are to be remembered and honored for their faithful service. This verse instructs believers to observe and learn from the lives of their leaders, considering the positive impact of their faith. Deacons are to set an example of devotion to God, inspiring others through their character and spiritual walk.
Deacons should strive to live lives that are worthy of imitation. They are to exhibit a deep faith in God, grounded in trust and obedience. By modeling a life of integrity, perseverance, and spiritual growth, deacons can inspire and encourage others in their own journey of faith.
Romans 12:6-8
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
This passage reminds us that every believer has been uniquely gifted by God for specific purposes. Deacons, as well as others in the church, are called to use their gifts to serve and edify the body of Christ. Whether through prophecy, teaching, serving, encouraging, giving, leading, or showing mercy, each gift contributes to the overall well-being and growth of the church.
Deacons are to identify and utilize their spiritual gifts in their role as servant leaders. By doing so, they create an environment in which the diverse talents and abilities of the congregation can be recognized and employed for the Kingdom of God. This verse encourages deacons to embrace their gifts and serve in ways that align with their individual strengths and passions.
2 Timothy 2:24-25
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.”
This passage emphasizes the qualities that should characterize the servant of the Lord. Deacons, as servants of God, are called to be kind, patient, and gentle, particularly when faced with opposition or disagreement. Rather than engaging in quarrels or resentfulness, deacons are to approach those with opposing views with a spirit of love and a desire to reclaim them for God’s truth.
Deacons are to be able teachers, equipped to instruct others in the truths of the Gospel. Their communication should be marked by gentleness, respect, and clarity. This verse encourages deacons to exhibit qualities that foster unity, understanding, and reconciliation within the body of Christ.