SF466 - The Qualifications for a Deacon (Acts 6 1-6)

SF466

THE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A DEACON

Acts 6:1-6

INTRODUCTION

Background

The office of a deacon is very important

It is in fact essential

We must never take it lightly or disrespectfully.

Seven Words That Describe a Deacon...

A Deacon Must Be...

                                                                                       Page 2

1A.       CHRISTIAN (3)

“choose seven men from among you”

2A.       CALLED

Stephen

Acts 6:8

Philip

Acts 8:4

3A.       CHOSEN (3)

Based on...

Knowledge

“known”

Consensus (5)

“pleased the whole group”

4A.       CONSECRATED (3)

“full of the Spirit”

Ephesians 5:18

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.

To be controlled by God’s Spirit

2 Timothy 2:21

If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.

                                                                                       Page 3

5A.       CONSISTENT (3)

“(full of ) wisdom” = Godly knowledge put in practice

At Church

1 Timothy 3:8-10

At Home

1 Timothy 3:12

At Work

Psalms 119:5

Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!

1 Peter 5:10

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

6A.       COMMITTED

“full of faith”

Have faith in God

Faithful to God!

7A.       COMPASSIONATE (2)

“serve”

Must care for men’s needs.

Must care for men’s souls

                                                                                       Page 4

APPLICATION

Not everyone is qualified to be a deacon

But every Christian is qualified to be a servant!