The estimated study time for this subject is 30 minutes.
Acts 6:1-6 (ESV) 1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.
In the early Church, the offices of deacons and elders emerge as pillars of leadership, each contributing uniquely to the flourishing of the Christian community. As I studied this subject many years ago as a thesis paper, I gained a newfound understanding of these roles. Both deacons and elders serve as examples to the Church and have a profound impact on it. The deaconry is a brand new word that I learned this past week through a granddaughter’s crossword puzzle. It means “the church office” and further proves to me that I still have things to learn about this subject. This study delves into the biblical foundations of eldership and the diaconate, exploring their qualifications, roles, and the synergy between elders and deacons. As servants of the Lord, we all are called to fulfill our roles in the church. There are no static positions in the body of Christ. We are all living and working together under the headship of our Lord Jesus but the role of leadership within the body is defined for us in scripture and it is important to understand and submit under their authority. God is truly amazing as all things are done decently and in order. I pray that this study will provide clarity on this subject.
I. The Need for Deacons: Addressing Practical Concerns and Equitable Care (Acts 6:1-6 ESV)
The need for organized service within the early Church became apparent as a complaint arose among the Hellenists that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. The Hellenists, Greek-speaking Jews, highlighted a cultural and linguistic disparity that required attention. Recognizing this need, the apostles summoned the full number of disciples, leading to the establishment of the diaconate—a ministry focused on practical service and support. The diaconate was not established as a governing body but a servant body. While there are examples of synergy where deacons are elders and elders are deacons, the need for servants remains critical to the effectiveness of the Church. The key word in understanding these roles is “servant.” Jesus is our greatest example as He washed the disciple’s feet. We are all servants to one another.
II. Deacons Serving in Obscurity: Qualifications and Purpose (1 Timothy 3:8-13 ESV)
Deacons, including Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, were chosen to serve in practical roles, taking pressure off the apostles and ensuring the equitable care of widows. Their selection emphasized character traits outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8-13—qualities such as dignity, honesty, and faithfulness. The role of a deacon, as exemplified by these qualifications, involves serving in relative obscurity, emphasizing the importance of faithful service over visibility.
III. Meeting Practical Needs and Alleviating Apostolic Pressures: Supporting the Apostles (Acts 6:2-4 ESV)
The appointment of deacons addressed practical concerns, allowing the apostles to focus on their primary responsibilities of prayer and the ministry of the Word. The strategic move to delegate practical tasks to deacons facilitated the overall health and unity of the Church.
IV. Dynamic Leadership Exemplified: Diverse Backgrounds and Growth (Acts 6:5 ESV)
The list of deacons—Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus—highlights the diverse backgrounds of those called to serve. Each brought unique qualities to the ministry, contributing to the flourishing of the early Church. The example of Philip, transitioning from a deacon to an evangelist, and Prochorus becoming a bishop, illustrates the growth and expanded leadership roles within the Church. But, very little else is known of them. But rest assured Jesus knows. The reward for this service is rarely know by others but is foundational in ministry. James calls it “pure religion and undefiled before the Father” God knows and that is what matters most.
V. The Ultimate Example of a Deacon: Stephen’s Unwavering Devotion (Acts 6:5-7:60 ESV)
Among the chosen deacons, Stephen stands as the ultimate example of unwavering devotion. Full of faith and the Holy Spirit, he not only served practically but also proclaimed the Gospel with great wisdom and boldness. Stephen’s martyrdom in Acts 7 underscores his commitment to Christ, making him a paradigm of selfless service and sacrificial devotion. We will be looking at his life in particular in the coming days but read the passage by clicking the link above. I encourage you, his words as he is dying mirror our savior’s words as He died on the cross. “Father forgive them.”
VI. The Biblical Foundation of Eldership:
Now we turn to the establishment of eldership within the early Church is rooted in the apostolic model and biblical principles. In Acts 14:23 ESV, we see the apostles appointing elders in every church. This practice of appointing elders is further reinforced in Titus 1:5 ESV, where Titus is instructed to appoint elders in every town. Pastors are the primary spiritual guides within the Church. As undershepherds of the flock, they hold the responsibility of vision and bear the burden of prayer and study of the scripture. Praying and preaching are their primary duty. Their closet has a sign on it “occupied” and their study “engaged.” Their lives are defined by the power in their preaching, their love for the church, and their burden for the lost. This is the heartbeat of the leadership of the Church. Deacons are essential to this task. They take away the physical burdens from the elders to support them as they preach the Gospel. This is clearly defined in the passage before us.
VII. Qualifications for Elders: A Closer Look (1 Timothy 3:1-7 ESV, Titus 1:5-9 ESV)
Examining the qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 ESV and Titus 1:5-9 ESV provides insights into the character traits deemed essential for eldership. These qualifications include being above reproach, having a good reputation, being apt to teach, and managing one’s household well. The biblical emphasis on these qualities highlights the spiritual and moral integrity required for the role of an elder.
VIII. The Synergy Between Elders and Deacons:
While elders are primarily responsible for the spiritual leadership and oversight of the church, the collaboration between elders and deacons is crucial. Acts 6:2-4 ESV illustrates the apostles’ recognition that their primary responsibilities were prayer and the ministry of the Word, leading to the appointment of deacons to address practical needs. This synergy ensures the holistic functioning of the church, with elders providing spiritual guidance and deacons offering practical support.
IX. The Dynamic Leadership of Elders: Practical Insights for Today:
Elders play a vital role in providing spiritual direction, protecting sound doctrine, and shepherding the flock. In 1 Peter 5:1-4 ESV, Peter exhorts elders to shepherd the flock of God, exercising oversight willingly, not for shameful gain but eagerly. The pastoral and shepherding responsibilities of elders provide practical insights for the leadership of the Church today.
X. The Unity of Leadership: Elders, Deacons, and the Body of Christ:
Both elders and deacons contribute to the unity and health of the Body of Christ. The qualifications and roles of elders and deacons are designed to complement each other, fostering a well-rounded and spiritually vibrant community. The ultimate goal is the edification of the Church and the advancement of the Gospel.
In conclusion, the offices of deacon and elder are integral to the structure and health of the Church. The biblical foundations, qualifications, and roles of elders provide a blueprint for effective spiritual leadership. As we explore the dynamic interplay between elders and deacons, may we gain a deeper understanding of the biblical leadership model and be inspired to cultivate leadership qualities within the Church today. May the examples of deacons and elders in the early Church guide us as we seek to faithfully serve and lead in the Body of Christ.