The Role of the Deacon

Text - Acts 6:1-7

Acts 6:1–7 KJV 1900

1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Introduction

The role of the deacon is established to serve the church in practical and spiritual ways. The term "deacon" comes from the Greek word διάκονος (diakonos), which broadly means "servant" or "minister." However, in the context of the church, it refers to a specific office with distinct responsibilities. To understand the role of the deacon, it is important to examine the relevant passages in Scripture and distinguish the office from general servanthood.

The Origin of the Office

The first clear example of the role of deacons is found in Acts 6. While the term diakonos is not explicitly used here, the passage describes the appointment of seven men to serve the church in a way that aligns with the later formalized office of deacon. The apostles, overwhelmed by the growing needs of the church, instructed the congregation to select men to handle the distribution of food to widows, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word.

The Need for Deacons: The church faced a practical issue—Hellenistic widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. This highlights the deacon's role in addressing practical needs within the church.

Qualifications: The men chosen were to be of good reputation, full of the Spirit, and full of wisdom (Acts 6:3). This shows that the role, while practical, required spiritual maturity and godly character.

Delegation of Responsibilities: The apostles delegated the task of serving tables to these men, emphasizing that their primary focus was on prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4). This division of labor allowed the church to function effectively. The role of the deacon was to be an extension of, not an overseer of the elder.

The Office of Deacon

1 Timothy 3:8–13 KJV 1900

8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

In 1 Timothy 3:8-13, Paul provides specific qualifications for deacons, indicating that the role had become a formal office within the church.

Character Requirements: Deacons must be dignified, truthful, self-controlled, and not greedy. They must hold firmly to the faith and live with a clear conscience. These qualifications emphasize the spiritual maturity required for the role.

Testing and Approval: Deacons must be tested and proven before serving, ensuring they are trustworthy and capable.

Family Leadership: Deacons must manage their households well, demonstrating their ability to lead and care for others.

Reward for Faithful Service: Faithful deacons are promised a high standing and boldness in the faith, showing that their service is both valuable and honored.

Distinguishing the Office from General Servanthood

While the term diakonos can refer to any servant or minister, the context determines whether it refers to the office of deacon. For example:

In Matthew 20:26, Jesus says, "Whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant (diakonos)." Here, the term refers to general servanthood, emphasizing humility and service as a mark of discipleship.

In Philippians 1:1, Paul addresses "the overseers and deacons (diakonois)" of the church, clearly referring to the formal office.

The distinction lies in the context and the qualifications outlined in passages like 1 Timothy 3. While all Christians are called to serve, deacons are set apart for specific responsibilities within the church.

Responsibilities of Deacons

The responsibilities of deacons, as seen in Scripture, include:

Practical Service: Deacons address the physical and logistical needs of the church, such as caring for the poor, distributing resources, and managing church affairs.

Support for Elders: By handling practical matters, deacons free the elders to focus on prayer, teaching, and spiritual oversight.

Spiritual Example: Deacons are to be models of godly character and faith, serving as examples to the congregation.

Closing

The role of the deacon is one of humble service, rooted in the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45). While the term diakonos can refer to general servanthood, the office of deacon is a distinct role within the church, requiring spiritual maturity, godly character, and a heart for service. Deacons play a vital role in the life of the church, ensuring that practical needs are met and supporting the ministry of the Word.