James Dickey Ordination

INTRODUCTION

Deacons are the stability of the local church.

ILL- Unbalanced engine in Mustang

Lots of things keep an engine from being balanced.

Deacons keep the local church balanced.

Look at what the Bible says...

1 Timothy 3:8–13 ESV

8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

I. The High Calling of a Deacon

A. Acts 6- the beginnings- function later is called deacon.

B. Why deacons exist.

1. Deal With Conflict

2. Serve

a. Deacon= servant

b. Same Greek word - Matt. 23:11, “But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant.”

3. Assist

a. List right after overseer.

(1) Pastor- qualifications deal with leadership.

(2) Deacon- qualifications deal with serving.

b. Deacons serve the church so the church can fulfill Great Commission.

c. Acts 6:3-4

Acts 6:3–4 ESV

3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

II. The High Standard of a Deacon

A. Qualifications of Deacon (Needed to serve- Pastor’s were needed to lead-

1. Dignified

a. The position demands respect

b. Deserve Respect by your actions.

2. Sincere

a. Not double tongued- don’t say one thing to one group and then something different to others.

b. Not a politician

3. Avoid Alcohol

a. Not a drinker.- abstain

b. Alcohol is an evil in our society.

c. Not commanded but commended.

d. Causes Poor Decisions

4. Not Greedy

a. Not after money

b. Build God’s Kingdom -- not your own.

5. Obey Scripture

a. In heart- not just appearance

b. Study and obey

6. Christian Wife

a. Build your wife up and help her in her journey of faith.

7. One Woman Man

a. Stay faithful to your wife.

8. Good Father

B. Reasons for strict qualification

1 Peter 3:13 ESV

13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?

1. Vs. 13- they are going to be looked up to

2. A standard for rest of congregation.

3. Shows what we value.

4. They will be held accountable.

a. Luke 12:48,

Luke 12:48 ESV

48 But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

III. The Response of the Church

A. High standards expected from everyone- not two standards.

1. These are just mandatory for office.

B. Respect

-Respect the Office.

C. Encourage

CONCLUSION

Laying on of hands. –