From the book, “What People Ask About The Church,” by Dale A. Robbins — 43 — A Deacon is one of the ministry offices of the church and literally
means a servant (Greek, DIAKONOS). Besides bishops and other offices, the early church
valued the ministry of the Deacon. "Paul and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ, To
all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons"
(Phil. 1:1). It is believed that the office of deacon developed out of the need
for the Apostles to delegate many of the increased administrative tasks that overwhelmed
the growing church. This was first seen when complaints were brought to the Apostles that
some of the Greek widows of the church were being neglected in their care. So in order
that they would not be distracted away from what God had really called them to do —
to be men of prayer and of the Word — they selected qualified persons to look after
these affairs. "...It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve
tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of
the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give
ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word" (Acts 6:2-4). This follows the administrative function of how the modern church should operate. The pastor should be the spiritual overseer, devoting his attention to the higher priorities of prayer and ministering the word, while delegating the load of administrative tasks, details and responsibilities to other ministers, elders and deacons. This article is copyrighted © by Dale A. Robbins, 1995, and is a publication of Victorious Publications, Grass Valley, CA 95949. Unless otherwise stated, all scripture references were taken from The New King James Bible, © Thomas Nelson Inc., 1982.You may download for personal use as long as you retain credit to the author. Obtain permission before reproducing copies for any reason, by filling out our simple permission form. For media reproduction rights, or to obtain published quantities of this title, email us. |
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