The Effective 21st The Effective 21st Century Baptist DeaconCentury Baptist Deacon

Ron WilliamsRon Williams

Ridgecrest Baptist ChurchRidgecrest Baptist Church

© 2007 Ron Williams© 2007 Ron Williams

OverviewOverview

Almost everyone has some concept of Almost everyone has some concept of what a deacon is supposed to be like, what a deacon is supposed to be like, what he is supposed to do, and how he what he is supposed to do, and how he is to relate to the church, its staff, and is to relate to the church, its staff, and its congregation. How much of that its congregation. How much of that perception is based on the Bible? What perception is based on the Bible? What we will do today will give you a firm we will do today will give you a firm understanding of the Biblical principles understanding of the Biblical principles involved in servanthood, practical involved in servanthood, practical means of performing with a servant’s means of performing with a servant’s heart and helpful discussions from heart and helpful discussions from those who have traveled this road those who have traveled this road before.before.

Today you will learn Today you will learn about...about...

Biblical basis of servanthoodBiblical basis of servanthood Definitions of various positionsDefinitions of various positions The role of the deacon in his churchThe role of the deacon in his church Your spiritual giftsYour spiritual gifts Practical ways to deal with servant Practical ways to deal with servant

issuesissues Various deacon servant approachesVarious deacon servant approaches

Being a “deacon” is one of Being a “deacon” is one of the greatest privileges a the greatest privileges a

Christian can ever receive. Christian can ever receive. Why?Why?

His role is described (Acts 6:1-7)His role is described (Acts 6:1-7) He is ordained (called) first by God He is ordained (called) first by God

and then the Church (1 Tim 3:8-13)and then the Church (1 Tim 3:8-13) He serves not only the Bride of He serves not only the Bride of

Christ but also those in authority Christ but also those in authority (Heb 13:17)(Heb 13:17)

His reward is not of this life but His reward is not of this life but crowns of reward (2 Tim 4:8; 1 Tim crowns of reward (2 Tim 4:8; 1 Tim 3:13) 3:13)

Biblical Basis of the Biblical Basis of the DeaconDeacon

Primary reference is Acts 6:1 (or more Primary reference is Acts 6:1 (or more commonly called “we need some help commonly called “we need some help around here!”around here!”

Keep this in mind: Keep this in mind: every personevery person in the in the church has been called to be involved in church has been called to be involved in some way, shape, form or fashion. Each of some way, shape, form or fashion. Each of us are unique. Deacons serve a unique and us are unique. Deacons serve a unique and named position. This is not an named position. This is not an entitlemententitlement but actually a but actually a responsibility.responsibility.

The Church’s NeedThe Church’s Need

We see that:We see that: Acts 6:1- Now in those days, when the Acts 6:1- Now in those days, when the

number of the disciples was multiplying, number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists because their Hebrews by the Hellenists because their widows were neglected in the daily widows were neglected in the daily distribution.distribution.

there has always been the need to there has always been the need to expand those serving in the Churchexpand those serving in the Church

there will always be need in the bodythere will always be need in the body church division can occur even in a fast church division can occur even in a fast

growing, dynamic, spirit-filled bodygrowing, dynamic, spirit-filled body

The The SolutionSolution Acts 6:2. Then the twelve summoned the Acts 6:2. Then the twelve summoned the

multitude of the disciples and said, “it is multitude of the disciples and said, “it is not desirable that we should leave the not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.”word of God and serve tables.”

The pastorate have a unique call and The pastorate have a unique call and cannot be expected to do it allcannot be expected to do it all

The pastorate works with the Body. The The pastorate works with the Body. The congregation needs to be intimately congregation needs to be intimately involved in meeting this needinvolved in meeting this need

The Biblical need is “assistance”. It is not The Biblical need is “assistance”. It is not directed toward governing the Church or directed toward governing the Church or even being in a position of authority over even being in a position of authority over the pastoratethe pastorate

The ProcessThe Process Acts 6:3. “Therefore, Acts 6:3. “Therefore, brethrenbrethren, seek out , seek out

from from among youamong you seven men of good seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit, and reputation, full of the Holy Spirit, and wisdom, whom wisdom, whom we may appointwe may appoint over this over this businessbusiness.” (task/duty-RW).” (task/duty-RW)

It was the It was the Church’sChurch’s responsibility to responsibility to selectselect nominees, but the nominees, but the pastoratepastorate was to was to approveapprove

MenMen were to be called of highest evident were to be called of highest evident Christian characterChristian character

These men needed to be These men needed to be knowledgeableknowledgeable about the needs of the Church (Acts 6:5). about the needs of the Church (Acts 6:5).

A Dichotomy of EffortA Dichotomy of Effort

Acts 6:4. “but we (the Pastorate) will Acts 6:4. “but we (the Pastorate) will give ourselves continually to prayer and give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.”to the ministry of the Word.”

Indicates a needed and recognized Indicates a needed and recognized separation of certain duties/tasks for the separation of certain duties/tasks for the church to function efficiently. It church to function efficiently. It recognized the need to “recognized the need to “keep the main keep the main thing-the main thingthing-the main thing””

God’s Word and sharing this with others God’s Word and sharing this with others should always takes precedent over should always takes precedent over other Church mattersother Church matters

This Might Work!This Might Work! Acts 6:5. “and the saying pleased the whole Acts 6:5. “and the saying pleased the whole

multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch.”proselyte from Antioch.”

the the congregationcongregation saw the value in having saw the value in having dedicated helpersdedicated helpers

to some extent, these would work to some extent, these would work independentlyindependently as they performed their task (this is important)as they performed their task (this is important)

the ones chosen were of Greek origin and the ones chosen were of Greek origin and well well awareaware of the specific need of the specific need

the the congregation selectedcongregation selected those called those called the men were already the men were already exhibitingexhibiting the needed the needed

spiritual qualitiesspiritual qualities

Servants Were Set ApartServants Were Set Apart

Acts 6:6 “whom they set before the Acts 6:6 “whom they set before the Apostles; and when they had Apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them.”prayed, they laid hands on them.”

the ordination was both symbolic as the ordination was both symbolic as well as practical, because:well as practical, because:

recognition of their responsibilityrecognition of their responsibility recognition of their limited authorityrecognition of their limited authority

The Model Worked!The Model Worked!

Acts 6:7. “Then the Word of God spread, Acts 6:7. “Then the Word of God spread, and the number of disciples multiplied and the number of disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many priests were obedient to the faith. We see priests were obedient to the faith. We see that:that:

it met a specific need (assistance)it met a specific need (assistance) developed a model for continuationdeveloped a model for continuation it quieted discord (developed harmony)it quieted discord (developed harmony) it allowed those with qualities to serveit allowed those with qualities to serve it resulted in a balanced church relative to it resulted in a balanced church relative to

prioritiespriorities

Qualifications of the Qualifications of the ServantsServants

Selected passages from Acts 6; I Tim 3; Selected passages from Acts 6; I Tim 3; Matthew 3: James 1; Heb 10; 1 Cor. 4Matthew 3: James 1; Heb 10; 1 Cor. 4

The Bible lays out a clear definition of The Bible lays out a clear definition of the type of man called to be a servant. the type of man called to be a servant. These are the goals to be visible in their These are the goals to be visible in their life. “While no man will meet each of life. “While no man will meet each of these qualifications every day, a serious these qualifications every day, a serious deficit of even one of these character deficit of even one of these character traits should preclude him from being traits should preclude him from being selected by the Church or cause him to selected by the Church or cause him to relinquish his position of responsibility”-relinquish his position of responsibility”-RWRW

QualificationsQualifications Acts 6:3. “ being of good report” means:Acts 6:3. “ being of good report” means: (A) Be a good old boy that everyone loves for (A) Be a good old boy that everyone loves for

his anticshis antics (B) Be someone that lives the life of piety (B) Be someone that lives the life of piety

while in churchwhile in church (C) Is respected by both his church and non-(C) Is respected by both his church and non-

church friendschurch friends (D) Has just started eating oatmeal and his (D) Has just started eating oatmeal and his

cholesterol has fallen by 30 points.cholesterol has fallen by 30 points. The best answer is (B). We are to exhibit the The best answer is (B). We are to exhibit the

same Christian character at home, work, and same Christian character at home, work, and at church. Not double-facedat church. Not double-faced

QualificationsQualifications Acts 6:3. “full of the Holy Spirit” Acts 6:3. “full of the Holy Spirit”

means:means: (A) be a church know-it-all and full of (A) be a church know-it-all and full of

one’s selfone’s self (B) prayed-up, read-up, directed-up(B) prayed-up, read-up, directed-up (C) Have the answer to all of the (C) Have the answer to all of the

church’s problems.church’s problems. The best answer is (B). The individual The best answer is (B). The individual

should be directed by God in a should be directed by God in a humble and deliberate fashion in all humble and deliberate fashion in all that he doesthat he does

QualificationsQualifications Acts 6:3. “full of wisdom” means:Acts 6:3. “full of wisdom” means: (A) have a lot of common sense(A) have a lot of common sense (B) be guided by your heart(B) be guided by your heart (C) utilize your Christian (C) utilize your Christian

experiences and daily guidance experiences and daily guidance from God.from God.

The best answer is (C). One should The best answer is (C). One should be experienced in issues of faith be experienced in issues of faith and exhibit sound judgement in all and exhibit sound judgement in all parts of his life.parts of his life.

QualificationsQualifications Acts 6:3. “full of faith” mean that:Acts 6:3. “full of faith” mean that: (A) able to move with God without (A) able to move with God without

knowing all the detailsknowing all the details (B) acting when the plan is fully (B) acting when the plan is fully

clear and you can accept itclear and you can accept it (C) jumping right in and seeing how (C) jumping right in and seeing how

it goes.it goes. The best answer is (A). Having faith The best answer is (A). Having faith

indicates your willingness to trust indicates your willingness to trust Him because you Him because you know HIM and HIS know HIM and HIS waysways

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:8. “grave” means:1 Tim 3:8. “grave” means: (A) a sour puss, everything has a flaw(A) a sour puss, everything has a flaw (B) considering whether a plot or (B) considering whether a plot or

cremation is the best way to gocremation is the best way to go (C) given to seriously considering the (C) given to seriously considering the

issues at hand.issues at hand. The best answer is (C). One who is The best answer is (C). One who is

serious about study and discernment serious about study and discernment about an issue.about an issue.

QualificationsQualifications I Tim 3:8. “not double-tongued” I Tim 3:8. “not double-tongued”

means:means: (A) what you say and believe are the (A) what you say and believe are the

same thingsame thing (B) you want to meet everyone’s need (B) you want to meet everyone’s need

and be liked- they need to hear you and be liked- they need to hear you agree with themagree with them

(C) Webster’s might define this as (C) Webster’s might define this as “one who often runs for office.”“one who often runs for office.”

The best answer is (A), say what you The best answer is (A), say what you mean and mean what you say. But mean and mean what you say. But think about it first!think about it first!

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:8. “not given to much wine” 1 Tim 3:8. “not given to much wine”

means:means: (A) mixed beverages would be a good (A) mixed beverages would be a good

alternativealternative (B) can you say “kegger”(B) can you say “kegger” (C) being temperate, retaining control (C) being temperate, retaining control

over his senses (including control over over his senses (including control over his mind and body).his mind and body).

The best answer is (C). As a The best answer is (C). As a representative of the church, losing representative of the church, losing control of one’s abilities would reflect control of one’s abilities would reflect poorly upon the church-at-largepoorly upon the church-at-large

QualificationsQualifications

1 Tim 3:8 “not greedy of filthy lucre” 1 Tim 3:8 “not greedy of filthy lucre” means:means:

(A) an honest day’s wage for an honest day (A) an honest day’s wage for an honest day of workof work

(B) only playing the lottery when it gets to (B) only playing the lottery when it gets to over 200 million (and you will split it with over 200 million (and you will split it with coworkers)coworkers)

(C) money is just a tool, but you need a (C) money is just a tool, but you need a shop full of these.shop full of these.

The best answer is (A). We cannot serve The best answer is (A). We cannot serve both God and mammon- or the things it both God and mammon- or the things it provides.provides.

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:9 “a holder of the Faith” means:1 Tim 3:9 “a holder of the Faith” means: (A) you are open to discussion on other’s (A) you are open to discussion on other’s

religious points of view, there are many means religious points of view, there are many means to heavento heaven

your are dogmatic and don’t discuss faith your are dogmatic and don’t discuss faith topics with others. You know what you know topics with others. You know what you know and they need to find it themselvesand they need to find it themselves

(C) you use the Bible and your own (C) you use the Bible and your own experiences to enlighten others on who Christ experiences to enlighten others on who Christ is and how he has changed your life.is and how he has changed your life.

The best answer is (C). You need to be able at The best answer is (C). You need to be able at all times to defend the faith and be able to all times to defend the faith and be able to discuss why you are a Christian. For lack of a discuss why you are a Christian. For lack of a better word “Apologetics”better word “Apologetics”

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:10 “tested and proved” means:1 Tim 3:10 “tested and proved” means: (A) a written exam requiring >70% (A) a written exam requiring >70%

accuracyaccuracy (B) others see in you characteristics of daily (B) others see in you characteristics of daily

living with Christliving with Christ (C) being at least 55 years old, having to (C) being at least 55 years old, having to

have gone through at least two staff have gone through at least two staff scandals, one major building campaign and scandals, one major building campaign and three years on the personnel committee. three years on the personnel committee.

The best answer is (B). You have been a The best answer is (B). You have been a Christian for some time and are known to Christian for some time and are known to already be serving the church in a useful already be serving the church in a useful and consistent manner.and consistent manner.

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:10 “blameless” means:1 Tim 3:10 “blameless” means: (A) the opposite of what your wife often (A) the opposite of what your wife often

thinks you arethinks you are (B) not perfect, you know right from (B) not perfect, you know right from

wrong and you try everyday not to forget wrong and you try everyday not to forget itit

(C) See answer (A) again. Your wife (C) See answer (A) again. Your wife knows you often forget to take out the knows you often forget to take out the trash, fill the car with gas, or put up your trash, fill the car with gas, or put up your laundry.laundry.

The best answer is (B). You try never to The best answer is (B). You try never to put yourself in a situation where you or put yourself in a situation where you or the Church would be damaged.the Church would be damaged.

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:11 “having faithful wives” means:1 Tim 3:11 “having faithful wives” means: (A) your helpmate, she wants to be helpful. Just (A) your helpmate, she wants to be helpful. Just

tell her what went on at the last deacon’s tell her what went on at the last deacon’s meeting.meeting.

(B) she knows the church like the back of her hand (B) she knows the church like the back of her hand and sometimes feels like that is exactly what it and sometimes feels like that is exactly what it needsneeds

(C) she agrees with your call, will bake meals, (C) she agrees with your call, will bake meals, send cards, attend gatherings and is willing to send cards, attend gatherings and is willing to share you with others. It is a big picture thing for share you with others. It is a big picture thing for her.her.

The best answer is (C). She is faithful as a wife, The best answer is (C). She is faithful as a wife, mother, daughter and church member. This does mother, daughter and church member. This does not mean she has to be dynamic, in the forefront not mean she has to be dynamic, in the forefront or some other highly visible position. She supports or some other highly visible position. She supports you.you.

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:12 “husband of one wife” (one 1 Tim 3:12 “husband of one wife” (one

woman man) means:woman man) means: (A) fully devoted to only one woman, (A) fully devoted to only one woman,

not married but displaying chastity- the not married but displaying chastity- the emphasis is on sexual purityemphasis is on sexual purity

(B) previously divorced 3 times before (B) previously divorced 3 times before becoming a Christian-- but now fully becoming a Christian-- but now fully devoted to his present wifedevoted to his present wife

(C) a bigamist - but with only one wife (C) a bigamist - but with only one wife on the record books- but who is on the record books- but who is counting.counting.

The best answer is (A). The best answer is (A).

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:12 “husband of one wife” (one 1 Tim 3:12 “husband of one wife” (one

woman man) indicates:woman man) indicates: does not exclude unmarried singlesdoes not exclude unmarried singles does not exclude remarried widowersdoes not exclude remarried widowers would exclude those previously would exclude those previously

divorced- regardless of when this divorced- regardless of when this occurredoccurred

those singled or divorced who are those singled or divorced who are engaged in a sexual lifestyle outside of engaged in a sexual lifestyle outside of the Biblical ideals of purity.the Biblical ideals of purity.

QualificationsQualifications 1 Tim 3:12 “ruler over their children and home” 1 Tim 3:12 “ruler over their children and home”

means:means: (A) takes responsibility for leading his family, (A) takes responsibility for leading his family,

training them in Christ and seeing to their training them in Christ and seeing to their welfare (physically, spiritually and emotionally). welfare (physically, spiritually and emotionally). He is not perfect- but he wants to beHe is not perfect- but he wants to be

(B) leads by example. His family follows Him out (B) leads by example. His family follows Him out of respect. They might even sit together on of respect. They might even sit together on Sunday mornings if they can go to Bojangles Sunday mornings if they can go to Bojangles afterwardafterward

(C) is iron-handed and keeps everyone in check.(C) is iron-handed and keeps everyone in check. The best answer is (A). It is the husband’s duty The best answer is (A). It is the husband’s duty

to minister to his own family first. If he cannot to minister to his own family first. If he cannot minister here- he will not be effective elsewhere.minister here- he will not be effective elsewhere.

QualificationsQualifications Matt 3:8-10 “faithful in tithing” Matt 3:8-10 “faithful in tithing”

means:means: (A) is it my gross pay or net pay?(A) is it my gross pay or net pay? (B) freely gives. Realizes that God (B) freely gives. Realizes that God

provides and that will reward later. provides and that will reward later. (C) gives when there is a urgent (C) gives when there is a urgent

need in the church but needs to need in the church but needs to approve how it is being used.approve how it is being used.

The best answer is (B). It is a “pay The best answer is (B). It is a “pay me now or pay me later” sort of me now or pay me later” sort of thing.thing.

QualificationsQualifications James 1:27 “represents the Church to those in James 1:27 “represents the Church to those in

need” means:need” means: (A) sees the need to go and doesn’t wait for a (A) sees the need to go and doesn’t wait for a

call from the church officecall from the church office (B) loves to visit the young couples. The senior (B) loves to visit the young couples. The senior

adults really don’t need much attention and adults really don’t need much attention and there is really nothing he has in common with there is really nothing he has in common with themthem

(C) He will visit those in the hospital but has to (C) He will visit those in the hospital but has to draw the line if it involves financial, emotional, draw the line if it involves financial, emotional, or spiritual issues. That is the pastor’s job.or spiritual issues. That is the pastor’s job.

The best answer is (A). The best servant is that The best answer is (A). The best servant is that which sees the need and takes as much which sees the need and takes as much appropriate (immediate) action as is appropriate (immediate) action as is reasonable for the circumstance.reasonable for the circumstance.

QualificationsQualifications

Hebrews 10:25 “attends corporate gatherings” Hebrews 10:25 “attends corporate gatherings” means:means:

(A) okay, but I went to the last children’s (A) okay, but I went to the last children’s program and I don’t even have childrenprogram and I don’t even have children

(B) realizes that his presence shows his intent (B) realizes that his presence shows his intent and willingness to be committed to the church and willingness to be committed to the church and its vision (great Commandments and and its vision (great Commandments and Commission)Commission)

(C) I don’t like it when someone other than the (C) I don’t like it when someone other than the pastor preaches. He is not here and no one will pastor preaches. He is not here and no one will really miss me. I do have that lake house you really miss me. I do have that lake house you know.know.

The best answer is (B). The best answer is (B). DesiresDesires to be present to be present and attends as regularly as he can. Makes it a and attends as regularly as he can. Makes it a priority in his weekly schedule.priority in his weekly schedule.

QualificationsQualifications

I Cor 4:2 “faithful to their calling” means:I Cor 4:2 “faithful to their calling” means: (A) Deacon’s meeting is Monday night. Good, (A) Deacon’s meeting is Monday night. Good,

I have prayer concerns I really need to shareI have prayer concerns I really need to share (B) even with a month’s notice, it is still hard (B) even with a month’s notice, it is still hard

to make the deacon’s meeting. to make the deacon’s meeting. (C) No one will miss me if I don’t make the (C) No one will miss me if I don’t make the

meeting. Isn’t UNC playing Dook Monday meeting. Isn’t UNC playing Dook Monday night? Oh well, I guess I could give up the first night? Oh well, I guess I could give up the first half of the game.half of the game.

The best answer is (A). Being faithful means The best answer is (A). Being faithful means desiring to serve at the cost of our own desiring to serve at the cost of our own desire, goals, and interests to meet the needs desire, goals, and interests to meet the needs of the entire church.of the entire church.

Biblical DefinitionsBiblical Definitions

What about Bishops, Elders, Overseers, What about Bishops, Elders, Overseers, Deacons, Women relative to being Deacons, Women relative to being “servants” in the church?“servants” in the church?

J Hampton Keathley says that deacon J Hampton Keathley says that deacon qualifications are:qualifications are:– marks of leadershipmarks of leadership– marks of spiritual maturitymarks of spiritual maturity– marks of targets one should strive marks of targets one should strive

towardstowards– marks of identification and marks of identification and

confirmationconfirmation

DefinitionsDefinitions

As Baptists, we ordain deacons to these As Baptists, we ordain deacons to these servant positions.servant positions.

DiakoneoDiakoneo=to serve, to wait upon. The =to serve, to wait upon. The emphasis is that is a voluntary effort emphasis is that is a voluntary effort ((therapontherapon) as compared to one of necessity ) as compared to one of necessity ((doulosdoulos). See John 12:26, Acts 19:22). See John 12:26, Acts 19:22

Diakonia=compassionate love towards the Diakonia=compassionate love towards the need within the Christian community. See need within the Christian community. See Acts 6:1, 2 Cor 8:4Acts 6:1, 2 Cor 8:4

Diakonos=laboring in the dust. A voluntary Diakonos=laboring in the dust. A voluntary servile position, setting things in order. The servile position, setting things in order. The emphasis is always on the service rendered, emphasis is always on the service rendered, not the server. See Acts 8:5-8, Col 4:7, Acts not the server. See Acts 8:5-8, Col 4:7, Acts 19:2219:22

Terms and PositionTerms and Position Deacon or “servant” was sometimes co-Deacon or “servant” was sometimes co-

linked with “linked with “episkoposepiskopos” meaning Bishop ” meaning Bishop or Elder or Overseer (Phil 1:1, 1 Tim 3:8)or Elder or Overseer (Phil 1:1, 1 Tim 3:8)

Elders, Bishops, Overseers relate more to Elders, Bishops, Overseers relate more to a permanent office (named) dealing with:a permanent office (named) dealing with:– church administrationchurch administration– co-ministry with pastorateco-ministry with pastorate– as compared to the Acts 6 passage which as compared to the Acts 6 passage which

some view as a temporary church office some view as a temporary church office needed to meet a specific crisisneeded to meet a specific crisis

PositionsPositions These aforementioned offices/titles have These aforementioned offices/titles have

become closely related, if not inseparable, as become closely related, if not inseparable, as the Church as progressed. One major issue the Church as progressed. One major issue has and probably will remain as a point of has and probably will remain as a point of discussion is whether Deacons should have discussion is whether Deacons should have some level of authority over the daily some level of authority over the daily operation of the Church. This is sometimes operation of the Church. This is sometimes seen in the election of a Deacon Board, seen in the election of a Deacon Board, having some authority over some, if not, having some authority over some, if not, many of the various church functions. many of the various church functions. Disharmony between the Pastorate and Disharmony between the Pastorate and Diaconate may result if there is a lack of Diaconate may result if there is a lack of Biblical knowledge about who has jurisdiction Biblical knowledge about who has jurisdiction over a given area.over a given area.

The Issue of Women The Issue of Women DeaconsDeacons

This can be a controversial topic. This can be a controversial topic. However, the Biblical record However, the Biblical record

needs to be used in needs to be used in understanding this as compared understanding this as compared

to modern social issues of to modern social issues of equality. It is not a matter of equality. It is not a matter of equality or favoritism. It is a equality or favoritism. It is a

mattermatter

of hierarchy and God’s instructions.of hierarchy and God’s instructions.

The Issue of Women The Issue of Women DeaconsDeacons

Daniel Wallace (Dallas Theological Daniel Wallace (Dallas Theological Seminary). Has extensively reviewed this Seminary). Has extensively reviewed this topic. Consider:topic. Consider:

Acts 6, 1 Tim 3, and Titus 1 passages all Acts 6, 1 Tim 3, and Titus 1 passages all clearly define the qualifications of the clearly define the qualifications of the deacon and or elder as masculine (men)deacon and or elder as masculine (men)

Servant ( minister/deacon) is cited 29 times Servant ( minister/deacon) is cited 29 times in 27 verses in the N.T. However, some see in 27 verses in the N.T. However, some see the Greek root of this word (diakon) often the Greek root of this word (diakon) often being used to denote either the act of being used to denote either the act of service or the position of servanthood itselfservice or the position of servanthood itself

The Issue of Women The Issue of Women DeaconsDeacons

So, what about the example of women who So, what about the example of women who were called servants?were called servants?

Some see the example of Phoebe as a clear Some see the example of Phoebe as a clear indication that women can be called to the indication that women can be called to the office of deacon (office of deacon (I commend unto you I commend unto you Phoebe our sister, which is a Phoebe our sister, which is a servant servant of the of the church which is at Cenchreachurch which is at Cenchrea- Romans - Romans 16:1).16:1).

If however, this is properly interpreted as If however, this is properly interpreted as allowing women deacons it has 5 major allowing women deacons it has 5 major problemsproblems

The Issue of Women The Issue of Women DeaconsDeacons Romans 16:1- Phoebe a Deacon?Romans 16:1- Phoebe a Deacon?

– In 1 Tim 3:11, it would appear illogical for their In 1 Tim 3:11, it would appear illogical for their (women) qualifications (as the wife) to be discussed (women) qualifications (as the wife) to be discussed right in the midst of those for male deaconsright in the midst of those for male deacons

– 1 Tim 3:12, Paul clearly states the 1 Tim 3:12, Paul clearly states the husbandhusband of one of one wifewife

– there is no equal discussion of qualifications of women there is no equal discussion of qualifications of women elders in 1 Tim 3elders in 1 Tim 3

– the role and assistance the wife is to provide is clearly the role and assistance the wife is to provide is clearly defined in 1 Tim 3. Conversely, the characteristics of defined in 1 Tim 3. Conversely, the characteristics of husbands of deacon wives would also have to be husbands of deacon wives would also have to be discussed in this same passagediscussed in this same passage

– Paul previously states in 1 Tim 2:12 that women were Paul previously states in 1 Tim 2:12 that women were not to exercise authority over men. It would be not to exercise authority over men. It would be illogical to believe Paul would discourage this in one illogical to believe Paul would discourage this in one passage but endorse it elsewhere.passage but endorse it elsewhere.

The Issue of Women The Issue of Women DeaconsDeacons

The Romans 16:1 passage is best The Romans 16:1 passage is best interpreted as Phoebe serving the church interpreted as Phoebe serving the church and that this service needed to be and that this service needed to be recognized. It does not indicate she held a recognized. It does not indicate she held a position of authority in the church.position of authority in the church.

Keep in mind that this subject topic has Keep in mind that this subject topic has nothing to do with the value of women and nothing to do with the value of women and their role in the church. Women are rightfully their role in the church. Women are rightfully called to many positions in the church where called to many positions in the church where they do serve. However, the Biblical record they do serve. However, the Biblical record does not indicate this as a place of does not indicate this as a place of recognized service or calling.recognized service or calling.

Spiritual GiftsSpiritual Gifts We need to understand that:We need to understand that: God gives each us spiritual gifts (at God gives each us spiritual gifts (at

least one)least one) these gifts are meant to benefit the these gifts are meant to benefit the

kingdom (to individuals or the Church-kingdom (to individuals or the Church-at-large)at-large)

N.T. gives definitions of some giftsN.T. gives definitions of some gifts It is not the gift that is important- it is It is not the gift that is important- it is

use of the gift that isuse of the gift that is the Church is a self-regulating/growing the Church is a self-regulating/growing

body. God provides people with the body. God provides people with the necessary gifts to meet its need.necessary gifts to meet its need.

Spiritual Gifts-Tools for the Spiritual Gifts-Tools for the DeaconDeacon

Four Primary PassagesFour Primary Passages– 1 Peter 4:9-111 Peter 4:9-11– Romans 12:1-16Romans 12:1-16– 1 Cor 12:1-14; 28-311 Cor 12:1-14; 28-31– Ephesians 4: 1-16Ephesians 4: 1-16

A total of 20 recognized giftsA total of 20 recognized gifts Two others (Celibacy-1 Cor 7:1-9) and Two others (Celibacy-1 Cor 7:1-9) and

Martyrdom (1 Cor 13:3) are also Martyrdom (1 Cor 13:3) are also sometimes listed.sometimes listed.

Gift Categories*Gift Categories*Support Sharing Speaking Supplemental

Service Hospitality Shepherding Wisdom

Helps Mercy Exhortation Discernment

Administration Evangelism Prophecy Faith

Giving Apostleship Teaching Knowledge

Leadership

*Ken Hemphill*Ken Hemphill

Gifts SurveyGifts Survey

Take the Spiritual Gifts SurveyTake the Spiritual Gifts Survey Complete the chartComplete the chart Circle the indicated gifts that Circle the indicated gifts that

appear to be your most appear to be your most dominantdominant

How is can God use those gifts How is can God use those gifts as you serve your church?as you serve your church?

Gifts-Focused Gifts-Focused ServanthoodServanthood

You cannot be everything to all membersYou cannot be everything to all members You are however, called as a group to meet You are however, called as a group to meet

everyone’s needseveryone’s needs Knowing the strength and limitations of Knowing the strength and limitations of

your gifts is importantyour gifts is important A team approach can help overcome your A team approach can help overcome your

limitations limitations Yokefellows who have different gifts than Yokefellows who have different gifts than

yours could help offset areas of low yours could help offset areas of low giftednessgiftedness

What Staff Feel They Need What Staff Feel They Need In the DiaconateIn the Diaconate

Top FiveTop Five

What Diaconate See As Their What Diaconate See As Their RoleRole

Top FiveTop Five

Common Deacon Service Common Deacon Service AreasAreas

Church administration-daily Church administration-daily operations*operations*

family ministryfamily ministry co-ministry co-ministry

(evangelism/training/teaching)(evangelism/training/teaching) church disciplinechurch discipline prayer and healing (intercession)prayer and healing (intercession) other duties as assignedother duties as assignedNo particular order of rankingNo particular order of ranking

*some would say this is the role of the elder*some would say this is the role of the elder

Things you should know-Ron’s Things you should know-Ron’s ListList There is a need to be met everyday- There is a need to be met everyday-

it is a matter of finding it and actingit is a matter of finding it and acting not everyone will want or need your not everyone will want or need your

help. Apply yourself to those who dohelp. Apply yourself to those who do even so, continue to make overtures even so, continue to make overtures

to those who do not respond to your to those who do not respond to your offers. offers.

Nothing discredits the office of Nothing discredits the office of deacon as when a member says, “I deacon as when a member says, “I don’t know who my deacon is- they don’t know who my deacon is- they have never talked to me”have never talked to me”

Things you should know-Ron’s Things you should know-Ron’s ListList

Ask others (staff/deacons) for help if it is not a Ask others (staff/deacons) for help if it is not a one-man jobone-man job

never put yourself in a compromising situationnever put yourself in a compromising situation if it was easy, anyone could do itif it was easy, anyone could do it never allow your personal actions to demean never allow your personal actions to demean

your character or the reputation of your your character or the reputation of your churchchurch

you are your wife’s and children’s spiritual you are your wife’s and children’s spiritual leader. They are your first obligation.leader. They are your first obligation.

develop a balance between service and duties develop a balance between service and duties at home (it will ebb and flow- have to be fluid) at home (it will ebb and flow- have to be fluid) if you are to be successful in ministryif you are to be successful in ministry

Things you should know-Ron’s Things you should know-Ron’s ListList

Your wife and family must fully support you in Your wife and family must fully support you in your role. Always be sensitive to this issueyour role. Always be sensitive to this issue

You must be guided by prayer and wisdom in You must be guided by prayer and wisdom in dealing with difficult issues. In some dealing with difficult issues. In some situations, there are no earthly situations, there are no earthly answers/remedies/cures or fixes. There is answers/remedies/cures or fixes. There is always compassion, caring, loving, sharing….always compassion, caring, loving, sharing….

It is the personal things you do that will make It is the personal things you do that will make the difference in the life of the church. Ten the difference in the life of the church. Ten years after the fact, they will say to you, “ I years after the fact, they will say to you, “ I still remember when you met me at the still remember when you met me at the hospital at 2 am….”hospital at 2 am….”

10 Keys to Deacon Success10 Keys to Deacon Success Give of yourself. Go the extra mileGive of yourself. Go the extra mile Never say “call me”. Instead you call and tell them you are Never say “call me”. Instead you call and tell them you are

going to cut the grassgoing to cut the grass keep the staff and church informed of what you are doing and keep the staff and church informed of what you are doing and

where there are needswhere there are needs do send cards, letters, phone callsdo send cards, letters, phone calls remember and act on special dates (anniversaries of deaths, remember and act on special dates (anniversaries of deaths,

births, etc)births, etc) engage your wife as a helper as much as appropriateengage your wife as a helper as much as appropriate even those who refuse to repond to your initiatives have to even those who refuse to repond to your initiatives have to

respect your outreach to themrespect your outreach to them get a feel for each family’s need. Some will want and need get a feel for each family’s need. Some will want and need

more attentionmore attention love the unloveable. They may be angry at the church, staff or love the unloveable. They may be angry at the church, staff or

even you!even you! support the pastorate every way you can. Be sensitive to their support the pastorate every way you can. Be sensitive to their

needs. Support the vision of the church through needs. Support the vision of the church through prayer/work/intercession. prayer/work/intercession.

Common SituationsCommon Situations

How do you handle…How do you handle…– member has been admitted to the member has been admitted to the

hospital. hospital. Is this a private person who would not Is this a private person who would not

want to be seenwant to be seen if not, visit being sensitive to their if not, visit being sensitive to their

medical statemedical state act on their behalf (if requested) relative act on their behalf (if requested) relative

to sharing of any newsto sharing of any news find out if they need anything and then find out if they need anything and then

actact stay in touch- ask for permission to praystay in touch- ask for permission to pray

Common SituationsCommon Situations

How do you handle…How do you handle…– family undergoing marital difficultiesfamily undergoing marital difficulties

find out the facts (if they will share)find out the facts (if they will share) Christ hates divorce. Be available for Christ hates divorce. Be available for

counseling or encouraging Christian counseling or encouraging Christian counseling by otherscounseling by others

Consult with the church staff. They might Consult with the church staff. They might know the inside story that will help youknow the inside story that will help you

Follow-up. Is church discipline needed? Is Follow-up. Is church discipline needed? Is there a benevolence issue developingthere a benevolence issue developing

Be careful about compromising situations Be careful about compromising situations or taking sides. or taking sides.

Common SituationsCommon SituationsHow do you handle…How do you handle…

– staff have called and need you to do staff have called and need you to do somethingsomething

They would not have called if they did not They would not have called if they did not need youneed you

Balance. How does this mesh with Balance. How does this mesh with home/work/family and be honest with themhome/work/family and be honest with them

Selflessness should be the rule rather than Selflessness should be the rule rather than the exception. Finds ways to ease the staff’s the exception. Finds ways to ease the staff’s burden so they can joyfully serveburden so they can joyfully serve

It is not about acclaim or title. It is about It is not about acclaim or title. It is about service (not unlike the demands placed upon service (not unlike the demands placed upon a soldier to follow someone into battle)a soldier to follow someone into battle)

Common SituationsCommon SituationsHow do you handle…How do you handle…

– church discordchurch discord find out what the situation isfind out what the situation is who is involvedwho is involved is the staff/congregation aware of this issueis the staff/congregation aware of this issue listen to the facts, be supportive but not listen to the facts, be supportive but not

accepting of divisive or non-Christian thoughtaccepting of divisive or non-Christian thought Try to provide closure by working with the Try to provide closure by working with the

individuals and noting progress. Be sure to individuals and noting progress. Be sure to report to the staffreport to the staff

As a last resort and after staff approval, be As a last resort and after staff approval, be prepared to rebuke/correct as needed. Love has prepared to rebuke/correct as needed. Love has to be the key to this- nothing less is acceptable. to be the key to this- nothing less is acceptable.

Various Deacon Servant Various Deacon Servant ApproachesApproaches

Various servant models are being Various servant models are being used throughout the SBC. These used throughout the SBC. These include:include:

Deacon Family PlanDeacon Family Plan Deacon “on call”Deacon “on call” Deacon by group (linked to a SS Deacon by group (linked to a SS

class, age group, or other class, age group, or other parameter).parameter).

The Deacon Family PlanThe Deacon Family Plan Has been used for many Has been used for many

decadesdecades connects specific families with a connects specific families with a

specific deacon (for some specific deacon (for some extended period of time)extended period of time)

utilizes a systematic means of utilizes a systematic means of record keeping for event record keeping for event continuitycontinuity

family assignments can occur family assignments can occur via alphabetical or some other via alphabetical or some other design (age/neighborhood)design (age/neighborhood)

The Deacon Family Plan-SpecificsThe Deacon Family Plan-Specifics StrengthsStrengths

– proven one on one connection approachproven one on one connection approach– excellent documentation approachexcellent documentation approach– deacons may be called to serve a wide deacons may be called to serve a wide

range of ages or cross-section of the range of ages or cross-section of the church (on a family basis)church (on a family basis)

WeaknessWeakness– families assigned to a non-committed families assigned to a non-committed

deacon may be lost in the systemdeacon may be lost in the system– documentation may seem burdensomedocumentation may seem burdensome– determining needy versus less needy determining needy versus less needy

families may have to be discerned through families may have to be discerned through much effortmuch effort

The Rotating Deacon “On Call”The Rotating Deacon “On Call” Has been used for many Has been used for many

decadesdecades provides assurance of coverage-provides assurance of coverage-

regardless of the situation or regardless of the situation or familyfamily

prevents burn out of deacons prevents burn out of deacons due to overburden issuesdue to overburden issues

provides immediate (known) provides immediate (known) assignment of deacons to cover assignment of deacons to cover new members, hospital visits, new members, hospital visits, etcetc

““On Call” -SpecificsOn Call” -Specifics StrengthsStrengths

– very flexible with low impact upon deacons. very flexible with low impact upon deacons. Need fewer numbers to meet basic needs.Need fewer numbers to meet basic needs.

– staff can rest assured someone will be staff can rest assured someone will be providing coverageproviding coverage

– deacons can plan their schedules to ensure deacons can plan their schedules to ensure their availabilitytheir availability

WeaknessWeakness– no means of systematic continuityno means of systematic continuity– members may not connect to floating deacons members may not connect to floating deacons

and “opt out” of asking for assistanceand “opt out” of asking for assistance– does not provide deacons the structure to does not provide deacons the structure to

develop deep relationships with familiesdevelop deep relationships with families

Group AssignmentsGroup Assignments

Has been used less frequentlyHas been used less frequently often structured around common often structured around common

denominators (SS class, age groups)denominators (SS class, age groups) provides an often natural provides an often natural

assignment of deacons with the assignment of deacons with the church membershipchurch membership

can be extended to a “Team” can be extended to a “Team” approach where clusters of deacons approach where clusters of deacons serve various groupings of members serve various groupings of members to reduce burden and extend to reduce burden and extend coveragecoverage

Deacon by Group-SpecificsDeacon by Group-Specifics StrengthsStrengths

– deacons handle groupings of people they are deacons handle groupings of people they are most familiar withmost familiar with

– Sunday schools and other groupings provide a Sunday schools and other groupings provide a natural conduit of discussion of needs, etcnatural conduit of discussion of needs, etc

– provides automatic coverage to the member provides automatic coverage to the member inside the grouping without any assignment inside the grouping without any assignment having to be madehaving to be made

WeaknessWeakness– can segregate deacon (pigeon hole) by restricting their can segregate deacon (pigeon hole) by restricting their

vision of the needs of the entire congregationvision of the needs of the entire congregation– deacons may feel they “represent” their group and lose deacons may feel they “represent” their group and lose

sight of the Church’s goals, visions or overall need. sight of the Church’s goals, visions or overall need. – if performed in a team approach, disparity between the if performed in a team approach, disparity between the

ability of various deacons to provide coverage may ability of various deacons to provide coverage may reduce confidence in the approach by some membersreduce confidence in the approach by some members

Let’s Play …..Let’s Play …..

Deacon Jeopardy!Deacon Jeopardy!