READ: 1 Timothy 3:8-13
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.
KEY THOUGHT:
The second element in the order of the church as established by God is the position of deacon. Deacons aren’t necessarily called. Deacons are selected and appointed by the church to lead through service. However, the position of deacon has its own criteria, which being different from that of a pastor, is still necessary in that the requirements establish the character and integrity of one holding the position of deacon. This is because deacons represent the pastor and the church in their service to members and to the community. Although these requirements specifically apply to deacons, some of them should be considered by others in key ministry roles. It’s important for all of us, as ambassadors for Christ in His duty, to represent Him well and bring no discredit to the church.
CONSIDER:
- Why is godly living important to Christians, especially when performing “official” church duties?
- How have cultural trends impacted the church’s ability to identify and appoint deacons according to Biblical standards?
APPLICATION:
Be a godly Christian in your duty for Christ!
