The Qualifications of the Deacon
The Qualifications of a Deacon
I Timothy 3:8-13
Today, we will give out a list of men of whom the church will select from this year for the office of Deacon. I believe it would be a good idea for everyone here today including all those who might serve as a Deacon to know the Qualifications & Responsibilities of a Deacon.
A Definition of the Word Deacon: The Greek word for Deacon is dee-ak-on-os. This word is defined as one who ministers, those who run errands, an attendant, a waiter, and most of all, one who is a servant.
First Appointed Deacons and their commission: This took place in Acts 6:1-6. There commission was to take entire charge of the distribution of alms, leaving the pastor free to devote themselves entirely to the spiritual functions of their office.
Are Deacons to be Men or Women? This has been a topic of discussion in many denominations today. However, careful search of the Deacon’s Responsibilities clearly show the Deacon is to be a man, not a woman. Verse Twelve of I Timothy Three clearly says; Deacons must be husbands of one wife. There is no way a Deacon can be a woman and be the husband of one wife.
What are the Qualifications of the Deacon? There are four major qualifications of a deacon. They are:
1—The Deacon must be a Christian (Saved or Born Again)
Ø The Deacon must show evidence of his Salvation: Colossians 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.
Ø The Deacon must be a Witness to the World outside the Church: Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Ø The Deacon must Tithe their income: 1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
If the truth be known, these are qualifications to everyone of us here today. Are you sure that you are saved? Do you witness to the World? Do you Tithe your income?
2—The Deacon must be an Active Church Member:
Ø The Deacon must be faithful in his attendance: Hebrews 10:25
Ø The Deacon must be able to encourage others: 1 Corinthians 12:25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
Ø The Deacon must share in the Ministry of the Church: Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ
3—The Deacon must be a Disciple of Christ:
Ø The Deacon must love one another: John 13:34-35
Ø The Deacon must Deny Himself: Matthew 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
Ø The Deacon must know the Bible and Study it: John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed.
4—The Deacon must comply to the Qualifications of the Bible: According to I Timothy 3:8-13, we can see the following Qualifications:
Ø Must have a desire to Serve
Ø Must be a man of dignity and wisdom
Ø Must be a man of Truth and honesty
Ø Must live a life that reveals the truth
Ø The wife of a Deacon must also be found worthy
Ø Must be the Husband of one wife
Ø Must be able to manage his children, household, and pay his debts
1 Timothy 3:13 For those who have served well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves, and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. (HCSB)