Introduction To Deacons

1 Tim 3:8-13.

I) What “Deacon” Means

A) The Greek word for deacon diakonos, generally means SERVANT.

1) The Greek sense of the word is: To

WAIT ON, ATTENDANT to run on

ERRANDS.

2) Diakonos is sometimes translated as, “servant,” and MINISTER.

3) Later, diakonos was used specifically to refer to an OFFICE within the church

(1 Tim 3:8-15; Php 1:1).

II) What Deacons Are Not

1) Congregational LEADERS. The

only office/ responsibility of spiritual oversight within the church is for an Overseer/ Shepherd!

2) "JUNIOR ELDERS”

(by contrast of the qualifications).

3) SECOND IN COMMAND (a servant is not a

position of authority). A deacon is in no way a

STEWARD (caretaker) of the eldership.

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III) Early Concept of Congregational Deacons (Acts 6:1-7).

A) Deacons are entrusted with matters of

PRACTICAL /PHYSICAL service

B) Deacons serve under the direction of the Shepherds.

1) The deacon’s responsibility is to be actively engaged in physical service to the congregation to allow the preacher and elders/overseers opportunity to focus

on spiritual matters such as prayer and teaching (Acts 6:3–4).

IV) The Greatness of service in the kingdom

A) Greatness is in serving (Mat 20:20-27).

1) If serving is beneath you, then the Kingdom is BEYOND you.

B) Becoming a deacon for any other purpose is not right! Jesus’ devotion serves as perfect

INSPIRATION Php 2:5-11).