The Heart and Hands of Calvary

(Acts 6:1-7) (1 Timothy 3:8-13)

Only the most humble can serve as deacons.

God: Second Intro: Last week we talked about The Pastor/Elder/Bishop. They are the under-shepherd of Jesus Christ our Lord to lead and teach the church. We are to multiply Pastor/Elders/Bishops within the church to be a council of leadership. But today we want to look at the only other office in the Church - Deacon.

1. DEACONS ARE THE SERVANTS IN THE CHURCH FOR THE GOSPEL (Acts 6:1-7) A.The word deacon comes from a word that overall means servant.

   2. The word appears as a verb and an noun.
   3. Every Christian has a responsibility to be a deacon
   4. Jesus is the perfect “deacon” servant
   5. We see the genesis of the office in Acts 6:1-7
      1. Problem
      2. Solution
      3. Delineation is defined here
   6. In the church today
      1. Serve the practical needs
      2. Assist in ministering to the congregation
      3. Address physical needs
      4. Help in benevolence
      5. Their work frees the pastors to preach and teach the Word of God
   7. Practical:
      1. Deacons should be valued because they do many things “behind the scenes”.
      2. There efforts contribute to the health of the Church
      3. They help strengthen the church by their labor

2. DEACONS ARE EXAMPLES TO THE CHURCH FOR THE GOSPEL (1Timothy 3:8-13)

   1. Here is the list of qualifications
   2. The same as that for the Pastor/Elder/Bishop minus the ability to teach
   3. Men of integrity, humility, and spiritual maturity
   4. These should be the qualities we all strive for. The Deacons serve as role models to us.
   5. That is why they should be “tested” before they are put in the position
      1. Men who are above reproach, trustworthy, and faithful in representing Jesus Christ.
   6. Practical:
      1. We should be prayerful in appointing new deacons
      2. We should encourage and hold them to these high standards
      3. The church is called to be an example to the World. Our deacons should lead in that effort.

3. DEACONS ARE WARRIORS FOR THE CHURCH FOR THE GOSPEL (both texts)

1. In Acts 6 the role given to these men relieve that Apostles of practical work so they can focus on the Word of God and the Churches mission.
2. Deacons keep the pastors from the burden of becoming distracted from their primary mission. This keeps the church focussed on the mission,
3. Deacons are not just helpers, they are co-laborers in the gospel.
4. Their support helps the church to function smoothly. They help maintain unity and peace.
5. Deacons service brings people to Christ and help believers grow in their faith.
6. Practical:
   1. Pray for the deacons who support us all.
   2. They work behind the scenes. Encourage and be thankful for them. Let them know you appreciate them.
   3. The labor not in vain.

Conclusion: Pray for the Deacons who serve and protect our Church.