Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Role:Deacons are a group of church officers in the Christian tradition, primarily responsible for serving the congregation and assisting in the practical and administrative needs of the church. The term "deacon" is derived from the Greek word "diakonos," meaning "servant" or "minister." The role of deacons is distinct from that of elders or overseers, focusing more on service and support within the church community. Biblical Foundation: The establishment of the role of deacons is traditionally traced to Acts 6:1-6, where the early church in Jerusalem appointed seven men to assist the apostles by managing the distribution of food to widows. This was done to ensure that the apostles could devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word. The Berean Standard Bible records this event as follows: "In those days, as the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenistic Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, 'It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will devote ourselves to prayer and the ministry of the word.' This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them." (Acts 6:1-6) Qualifications: The qualifications for deacons are outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. According to the Berean Standard Bible, deacons must be "worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain." They must "hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience" and be tested before serving. Additionally, deacons are to be the husband of one wife and manage their children and households well. The passage reads: "Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued or given to much wine or greedy for money. They must hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Additionally, they must first be tested. Then, if they are above reproach, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives must be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in all things. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife, a good manager of his children and of his own household. For those who have served well as deacons acquire for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus." (1 Timothy 3:8-13) Functions and Duties: The primary function of deacons is to serve the church in practical ways, allowing the elders to focus on spiritual leadership and teaching. This service can include managing church resources, caring for the needy, and facilitating the logistics of church gatherings. Deacons are often seen as the hands and feet of the church, embodying the servant leadership exemplified by Christ. Historical Context: In the early church, deacons played a crucial role in maintaining the unity and functionality of the Christian community. Their service ensured that the physical needs of the congregation were met, which in turn supported the spiritual growth and outreach of the church. Over time, the role of deacons has evolved, but the core principle of service remains central to their function within the church. Significance: Deacons are vital to the health and operation of the church, providing necessary support and service that enable the church to fulfill its mission. Their role underscores the biblical principle that all members of the body of Christ are called to serve one another in love and humility, following the example of Jesus, who came "not to be served, but to serve" (Matthew 20:28). Greek 1247. diakoneo -- to serve, minister ... support (1), do...the serving (1), employ...in serving (1), minister (3), ministered (2), ministering (3), servant (1), serve (4), serve as deacons (1), served ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1247.htm - 9k 5376. Philippos -- "horse-loving," Philip, two sons of Herod the ... 3937. Parmenas -- "constant," Parmenas, a Christian 4402. Prochoros -- Prochorus, a Christian at Jer. 5096. Timon -- Timon, a Christian 1249. diakonos -- a servant, minister 4736. Stephanos -- "crown," Stephen, the first Christian martyr Library The Seven Deacons Deacons and Deaconesses. Epistle xxvii. To the Presbyters and Deacons. Duties of Deacons. Epistle v. To the Presbyters and Deacons. Epistle iv. To the Presbyters and Deacons. The Institution of Deacons, and the History of Stephen. Epistle xvii. To the Presbyters and Deacons About the Foregoing ... Letter clxxii. To the Presbyters and Deacons of the Church of ... Innocent, Bishop, to Presbyters and Deacons, and to all the Clergy ... Thesaurus Deacons (5 Occurrences)...Deacons (5 Occurrences). ... 1 Timothy 3:10 And they must also be well-tried men, and when found to be of unblemished character then let them serve as deacons. ... /d/deacons.htm - 7k Deaconess (1 Occurrence) Deacon (4 Occurrences) Bishop (4 Occurrences) Government (20 Occurrences) Subapostolic Sub-apostolic Ministry (44 Occurrences) Church (110 Occurrences) Nicanor (1 Occurrence) Resources Can women serve as deacons in the church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the qualifications of elders and deacons? | GotQuestions.org What are the responsibilities of deacons in the church? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Deacons (5 Occurrences)Philippians 1:1 1 Timothy 3:8 1 Timothy 3:10 1 Timothy 3:12 1 Timothy 3:13 Subtopics Related Terms |