Mike Mazzalongo

#7 – The Role & Work of Deacons - Part 1

Deacons

Diakonos = Servant• Bondslaves• Boyslaves• Domestics• Subordinates

Examples

Luke 10:40 Martha “Served”

Acts 6 They “Served” Food

Romans 13:4 Messenger /

CourierRomans 16:1 Phoebe (Courier)

Now at this time while the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Hellenistic Jews against the native Hebrews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily serving of food.

- Acts 6:1

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. Therefore, brethren, 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.

- Acts 6:2-3

But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” The statement 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- Acts 6:4-5

Acts 1:1-6

A. Limited Number

Acts 1:1-6

A. Limited Number

B. They were selected

Acts 1:1-6

A. Limited NumberB. They were selected

C. They were men

Acts 1:1-6

A. Limited NumberB. They were selectedC. They were men

D. They had charge

Acts 1:1-6

A. Limited NumberB. They were selectedC. They were menD. They had charge

E. The task was singular

Acts 1:1-6

F. Specific qualifications– Good reputation– Full of spirit– Full of wisdom– Take charge

Acts 1:1-6

G. Different kinds of men

Acts 1:1-6

H. Ordained/Commended

Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons:

- Philippians 1:1

Summary

1. Spiritually mature, talented, appointed

Summary

1. Spiritually mature, talented, appointed

2. Selected by, from and for congregation

Summary

1. Spiritually mature, talented, appointed2. Selected by, from and for congregation

3.Authority is connected to service

Summary

1. Spiritually mature, talented, appointed2. Selected by, from and for congregation3. Authority is connected to service

4. No Job/No Deacon

Summary

1. Spiritually mature, talented, appointed2. Selected by, from and for congregation3. Authority is connected to service4. No Job/No Deacon

5. No Group Authority