For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth

of the gospel Col 1:5

The Logos march 2013 Issue

A publication of the Church of Christ on Tortola, with the aim of bringing everyone in unity through the Logos of God.

The Logos

Church Organization - Deacons By Kenny Lake In last months issue of the Logos, we began our Church organization study by looking at the Elder, Pastor and Bishop. Now we continue our study by investigating the Deacons. Sometimes mistaken for Elders in many Churches. Some congregations may even select deacons to leads and makes decisions for the church. However through examining the Bible, we find that the New Testament pattern regarding deacons shows that they were important servants of the church. Deacons are needed in every congregation and without whom, a church remains lacking. Just as with the absent of Elders. The Office of Deacon "Paul and Timothy, bondservants of Jesus Christ, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with the bishops and deacons" (Philippians 1:1) After reading the above verse, notice that Paul the writer greets all of the Christians (saints), in the congregation in Philippi. Also notice that he also greets those in the congregation who were Bishops and Deacons. By Paul doing this, he is showing that he recognizes that there is not only an office of Bishops but also the office of Deacons. What does the word Deacon mean? Let us take the time and examine that now. Meaning of the word Deacon In looking at the meaning of the word, we need to understand the word in two ways or forms. Firstly its meaning and definition in the New Testament. The Greek word which is translated deacon is diakonos, which is a generic word which means: a servant, one that serves, an attendant, a minister and one that ministers". The two ways this generic word is used in the New Testament: (1) General meaning to refer to people in the Church.

Jesus referred to as a diakonos (Servant, Minister) Romans 15:8 The Apostles referred to as a diakonos (Servant, Minister) II Corinthians 3:6 Evangelists referred to as a diakonos (Servant, Minister) Colossians 1:7 Eph 6:21 Followers of Christ referred to as a diakonos (Servant, Minister) John 12:26

(2) Specific meaning that refers to an office in the Church.

Office of Deacon mentions Philippians 1:1, I Timothy 3:13

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Qualifications of a Deacon When looking at the office of a Deacon, just as there are required qualifications for the office of a Bishop. There are similar qualifications for one to serve in the office of a Deacon. In I Timothy 3:8-13 Paul gives the qualifications for those who desire to serve as Deacons. Let us remember one very important thing, just as Paul said in I Timothy 3:1-2. That a Bishop then must be, please note that as Paul switches to Deacons, he says in v8 likewise showing just as the Bishop must be, so likewise the Deacon must be. Here are the must be requirements that one must have in order to hold the office of a Deacon: *Honest* not double-tongued* not given much wine* not greedy for money* holding to the faith with a pure conscience* proven* blameless* husbands of one wife* ruling their children and their own houses well* Also note that in verse 11 the scriptures shows that even the Deacons' wives must be: *Honest* not slanderers* sober* faithful in all things* The Work of a Deacon

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When compared with the qualifications of an elder, it is apparent that the requirements for a deacon are somewhat more relaxed. This is probably because of the nature of their work. Elders are the spiritual guides who oversee the work of the church, while deacons are servants of the church, who assist with church's various needs. "Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, '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 6:1-4 From this passage, we learn that the work and role of deacons are to serve the Church in a more physical nature where as the Elders focus on the spiritual nature of the Church. Though the required work may vary, the nature of the deacon's work is clear from this passage. It is physical in nature. The office of a Deacon is a vital part of a local church. Their work helps the Elders to be able to focus on teaching, guiding, caring and providing all the spiritually needs of the Church. Hence both the spiritual and physical needs of the Church are fulfilled when the Church is equipped with Elders and Deacons. It is essential that we understand the qualifications and work of a Deacon, so that we may properly fill this position with godly men who will assist the church in various areas that are needed. Therefore, let us be diligent to assign qualified men, dismiss unqualified men and remove unscriptural offices from our churches. Lets just be the Church of the Bible by holding on to Gods word and reject the dogmas of men.

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