While deacons are to be as godly as elders, they differ from them in terms of their ability to teach. The authority of pastors and elders is based on their proclamation and exposition of God's Word. Deacons help the elders implement their task. The distinction between the two is that Scripture says the elders must be able to teach. That doesn't mean deacons can't teach or shouldn't teach. They certainly should be strong in sound doctrine. Also they should be full of faith, full of the Spirit, full of wisdom, and possessing a good reputation-like the men in Acts 6. They ought to be people of integrity. To state that deacons are not the primary teachers in the church doesn't mean that they are ignorant theologically. First Timothy 3:9 says they hold "the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience." That means they not only know the truth but also live the truth. Everyone in the church is to serve in some way. Some serve with unique gifts and some serve in an official capacity. (1 Tim. 3:11). They are models of service to Christ and His church. The qualifications for both elders and deacons are the same, but deacons function under the leadership of the elders. Nevertheless deacons, must be considered as leaders in the church. They are to lead by example. Every church needs both pastoral leadership and servant leadership. We couldn't accomplish a thing if it weren't for the men who carry out the administration, implementation, and application of God's Word. |
