Ecclesiology 101 Part 9
Over the last several weeks, we have been discussing the different aspects of what makes a Biblical church. We have recently been focused on the leadership within the church and how God has designed for them leading the body of Christ. Today we will discuss the final member of church leadership, and it is one that I believe shows the face of the modern church. Today we will be discussing the role of the deacon.
As we have seen throughout this study, Scripture provides the standard for the roles within the church. This holds true with the role of the deacon.
“6 Now at this time, as the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint developed on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food. 2 So the twelve summoned the congregation of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable for us to neglect the word of God in order to serve tables. 3 Instead, brothers and sisters, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 The announcement found approval with the whole congregation; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch. 6 And they brought these men before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them.
Acts 6:1-6
We see in this passage an example of the order within the church. First we can identify that the disciples of Jesus Christ, those we have identified as laying the groundwork for the modern church, became aware of an issue within the church. There were widows who were being overlooked. The disciples recognized that they were not able to meet this need without neglecting their duties of teaching Scripture. So they designated that seven men would be chosen to fulfill this need.
Thanks to Scripture, we see that a deacon is a man who is of good reputation and full of faith who is there to assist with any issues within a church. This is so that the pastor and elders of the church can focus on the spiritual health of the church, a deacon is there for the physical needs. In today’s church, we often see deacons as the first official face of the church. They are typically those who come up to an individual who is visiting the church, they will answer questions and ensure that they feel welcome. Not only that, but a deacon will typically ensure that if there is anyone within the church that needs help they will receive it.
I hope this study has helped you to understand the biblical order within a church. Next week we will finish our study by discussing what a church should not be.
Seek the truth and encourage one another,
Alex