Beth-El Baptist Church

07/23/06

Greg Tomlinson

What is the Deacon of a Church supposed to do?

Over the last couple of meetings we have been looking at tasks associated with some of the leaders of a local church. This week, we will look at what a Deacon of a church is supposed to be doing.

1. What does the word for “Deacon” mean?

1 Timothy 3:10

Matthew 4:11; 20:25-28; 22:13; 23:8-12

Mark 1:13, 31; 9:35; 10:42-45

Luke 4:39; 22:25-27

Colossians 1:7-8

The Greek word for Deacon is ‘diakoneo’ meaning minister or serve. A deacon then is simply one who serves. He is a servant of others and not of himself.

2. What are the requirements to becoming a deacon?

1 Timothy 3:8-13

Romans 16:1-2

1 Peter 4:10-11

Someone who is going to be a deacon is to be someone that is more mature in the faith and is to be tested to exhibit the character qualities of a deacon. They are not to be living in open opposition to Godly character. They are to be examples to others of Godliness and leadership in their houses and in the church.

3. Where can we find the functional activities of a deacon?

Acts 6:2-6

Matthew 25:44

Luke 10:40-42; 17:7-10

John 2:5; 12:26

Romans 15:8-9

2 Corinthians 6:4-10

Ephesians 3:6-7

Colossians 4:7-9

1 Thessalonians 3:2-3

1 Timothy 4:6-7

The functions of a deacon include sharing the burden that many think would normally be placed on the pastor. They are to take on some of these tasks so that the Pastor can be freed up to study, pray, preach and teach. Some of these tasks would include visiting the sick and extending benevolence. The most important part is for them to sit at the feet of Jesus and learn from his word. It includes looking at the needs of others and filling them first. The office of deacon is not self-focused but other focused. This recognizes that they are servants of Jesus Christ first and others second. It is through serving others that they serve Jesus. They are to also to be followers of Jesus.