1 Timothy 3:8-13

Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain.  They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.  And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.  Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things.  Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well.  For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

Paul continues his instructions concerning the officers of the church.  Deacons serve an important role in the life of the church.  They have many of the same qualifications as the elders but they are not required to possess the gift of teaching.  The apostles appointed deacons in the early church to help in the distribution of food to the widows.  It seems that these servants have more of a logistical responsibility within the body. 

DIGNIFIED REPUTATION: There is no substitute for character in church leadership.  Both those who lead spiritually and those who serve physically must have strong and tested character.  They must be well respected with dignity, honest in their speech and financial dealings, exercise self-control in the area of drink.  Their faith must be firm with an unwavering trust in the Lord.  Their conscience must be clear and free from greed.  Greed and faith do not coexist.  If we truly trust God, we know that He has provided all our needs adequately and we will not desire more than He has graciously provided.

BLAMELESS REFERENCES: Their reputation in the community at large must be blameless and above reproach.  New believers or people who are unknown in the community need to have time to prove themselves prior to being given responsibilities in an official capacity in the church.  Perfection is never an option for fallen men.  However, a person who readily admits to their failures and turns from their sinfulness in repentance is a person who can be trusted with leadership in the body.

FAITHFUL RELATIONSHIPS: Serving in the home is a prerequisite for serving in the church.  The relationship between a husband and a wife is an important indication of the character of a man.  Most women will gladly follow a godly man who serves and leads her well.  A godly man will serve his wife by alerting her to areas of sinfulness in her patterns of speech and other areas of unfaithfulness.  He will also lead his children well by pointing them the Christ as their Savior and helping them walk faithfully according to the teachings of Scripture.  Above all, a deacon will have an intimate relationship with the Lord.  They have a strong faith in the Lord’s provision and protection, and they stand in the righteousness of Christ.  

APPLICATION: Identify areas of our character that must be improved and work with intentionality to grow through study of Scripture, prayer, and with the help of the body of Christ.  Look for opportunities to grow in experience and maintain a godly reputation in the church and general community.  Serve faithfully in the context of the family by discipling both spouse and children.

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