Selection and Qualifications of
Deacons As we begin the selection process for deacons, I want to give you information about the process, and the qualifications of deacons. Deacons are Important This is seen in Paul’s letter to the Philippians, which he addresses to the saints, including the elders and deacons (Phil. 1:1). The Word “Deacon” It’s used regarding different people in the Bible, including Christ and all his disciples. Diakonos is also used of men holding the office of deacon, meaning they serve the congregation, under the oversight of the elders. Work of Deacons, Example of Their Selection Besides exemplifying deacons’ work, this Scripture gives us an example of the selection process. The apostles gave the qualifications of deacons to the congregation, and asked the people to select men who met the qualifications. Then at a later date, the apostles appointed them. Exact details of the process are not given in Scripture. So each congregation must establish an expedient process to accomplish the selection and ordination of deacons. Tested Before Ordained The way we test them is to see whether they meet the qualifications in the Bible (1 Tim. 3:8-13). Moral and Spiritual Integrity
These men behave in a dignified and reverent manner; therefore, they’re grave. They’re serious about serious matters, and don’t take them lightly. These men are not double-tongued. They don’t say one thing to one person, and something different to another person. They are consistent and truthful, even when they make mistakes. They’re not addicted to much wine. Literally translated, they’re “not holding the mind” on much wine. They have no desire to partake of much wine, which would result in drunkenness and impaired judgment
They’re not fond of sordid gain. They’re not men who try to make money illegally, or in ways that hurt others. They’re holding the mystery of faith with a clear conscience. They’re faithful to the gospel of Christ, and possess a clear conscience (Jas. 4:17). They’re beyond reproach (blameless). A sustainable charge of sin can’t be brought against them. Lawfully Married to a Faithful Wife The deacon’s wife must also meet qualifications, which enable her to help her husband rather than hinder him (1 Tim. 3:11).
Deacons’ wives must be dignified and reverent, just as their husbands (1 Tim. 3:8). They’re not malicious gossips and slanderous. Gossips habitually reveal personal or sensational facts to hurt others. Slanderers utter false charges or misrepresentations, to defame and malign others. A wife who gossips and slanders is not only sinning, but hurting her husband and his work. Rather than gossiping and slandering, deacons’ wives are temperate and sober. They’re in full control of themselves, and faithful in all things. Deacon’s Management of His Home Notice the language in 1 Tim. 3:12, as Paul uses the plural form of words relating to deacons, their children, and their households.
Since Paul uses the plural this way, he’s not specific regarding the number of children a man must have to qualify as a deacon. Therefore, a man with any number of children can be qualified. Deacons are good managers of their children and households. This shows they have a good track record as managers, and the skills to be managers in the church. A Deacon’s Reward They have confidence in the reward the Lord will give (Matt. 23:11-12).
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