The Qualifications for Deacons in Christ’s Church
Christ’s church consists of people who have received the Spirit of Christ by the will of God (Jn 1:12–13; Acts 1:8). God the Father chose this body of members before the foundation of the world (Rom 11:5–6; Eph 1:4–5; 2 Thess 2:13), predestining them to adoption into His family. Christians are the children of God (1 Jn 3:1, 10), having received the Spirit of adoption (Rom 8:15, 23).
God calls out people from every nation, tribe, and language to be the Israel of God (Is 49:1–6; Gal 6:16; Rev 5:9; 7:9). The church belonging to Christ, having been redeemed by His precious blood (Heb 9:12; 1 Pet 1:19), makes up the one holy nation of royal priests chosen to be the bride of Christ (1 Pet 2:9). The use of terms to describe the body of Christ helps us to understand our union with Christ, who is the Head of the church (Eph 1:22; 5:23; Col 1:18).
The people of God, in Christ, have one Leader, who is Christ (Mt 23:10). We follow him — not men. Thus, the church is not structured after the organizational models of the world. We serve our Lord as slaves of Christ our King (Ps 24; Eph 6:6; 1 Tim 6:15). Belonging to Him who loved us and who gave Himself for us is our delight. Christ died for us in order to save us from the consequences of our sins against God (Mt 1:21).
Christians bear witness of Christ (Acts 1:8). Our Lord is worthy of all praise and honor because of who He is and what He has done for us. We gladly proclaim Him and His excellencies (Col 1:28; 1 Pet 2:9). Our boast is in Christ (1 Cor 1:31; Gal 6:14), alone, for apart from Him we are nothing and can do nothing (Jn 15:5).
It has pleased the God of Israel to position certain men within the membership of local gatherings, to serve as elders or deacons. In the pastoral epistles, written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy and Titus, we learn the qualifications for local church elders (1 Tim 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9) and for deacons (1 Tim 3:8–13). There are similarities and differences between the categories.
In view is that which brings a helpful and healthy order to the service and worship presented to our Lord Jesus Christ. God has prescribed what is best practice. Those who truly love the Lord our God and His beloved people will do what is necessary to prosper the advance of the kingdom of God on earth. The greatest men among us will serve local assemblies of believers, which is a good work.
Deacons (Gk diakonia) are the epitome of self-sacrificing service. When a man of God aspires to serve Christ, it becomes evident to others. The natural man is selfish and self-serving. The spiritual man gives away his life in order to gain the abundant life “in Christ.”
A deacon is a servant by definition. He waits for the Lord (time); and he waits on the Lord (service), while he waits for the Lord’s return. Stated another way, using his time and talents, the deacon ministers in every practical way for the benefit of Christ’s church.
The local church deacon is a man of faith who has been tested in knowledge, attitude, behavior, and aptitude. First, he knows who he has believed (2 Tim 1:12). The mystery of the faith is his first priority. One cannot serve Christ and His church without a clear conscience (1 Tim 3:9). The truth, as it is in Jesus (Eph 4:21), has set this man free from slavish bondage to worldly things and pursuits (Jn 8:32, 36). The deacon knows the Lord and the Word of the Lord. This is what motivates him to give himself in service.
Second, the deacon has a kingdom mind-set and attitude. All things are ever, always for his King. Service is a privilege. It secures a high standing in the assembly (1 Tim 3:13). The knowledge of God becomes a life-attitude. There is no shame in the deacon’s belief in the Gospel (Rom 1:16–17); and that is the life that shines before others (Mt 5:16). Conviction translates into action when people are looking and even when they are not looking.
In the same way as the elder, the godly life of the deacon begins at home (1 Tim 3:12). Dignity marks the deacon, his wife, and their children. The holy family exudes godliness. Knowing the deficiencies of the Christian life, that is, sin still bringing trouble, the deacon and his family are humble people, knowing they have been forgiven much.
Third, as knowledge shapes attitude, attitude influences the behavior of the deacon and his family. Attitude is in the heart, but behavior is on the sleeve. It is visible to all, believers and unbelievers. Hence, the good works of the deacon are the means by which others will glorify God in heaven (Mt 5:16).
Good works vary from Christian to Christian (Eph 2:10; Jas 2:14–26); but the deacon does whatever he is gifted in that helps the elders to feed and tend to the flock of God (Jn 21:15–17; 1 Pet 5:1–5). This is our final consideration. Aptitude is the God-given gift and talent bestowed upon a particular man who serves under the oversight of the elders.
In Acts 6, we have an early depiction of this “practical” service by seven Greek men who were set apart by the Jerusalem church elders. Their task was to assist in the care of widows in need. They were obviously trustworthy in both their relationship with women and money. This is essential along with self-control regarding potentially addictive substances.
In conclusion, many serve Christ’s church as servants without the title: ”deacon”. This is highly commendable. When overseers of local churches, who are themselves appointed by the Holy Spirit (Acts 20:28), appoint deacons to be recognized representatives of the local congregation, it is a good and helpful way to properly order the church for service and worship. It’s a blessing when faith is strengthened through selfless service. As faith grows, so does the scope of service.
The deacon, his wife, and their family are exemplary ambassadors for Christ (2 Cor 5:20). We celebrate those who serve in diverse ways, accomplishing a myriad of necessary tasks for the building up of the body of Christ in every location. Truly, deacons are some of the greatest among us.
David Norczyk
Spokane Valley, Washington
February 1, 2024
1 Timothy 3:8–13
