Font Size
Those who “serve” in the Christian community, assisting the elders or overseers (bishops). The Greek word which the NIV translates four times as “deacon” occurs a further 25 times in the NT, where it is translated as “servant”. It seems that all Christians have a general servant role, whereas some (deacons) are called to a specific office of service within the church.
Why they were needed Ac 6:1-4 The verb “wait” means “to serve”.
Their qualifications and selection Ac 6:3
Their names and appointment Ac 6:5-6 Although the Seven are not actually called “deacons”, they were probably the earliest example of Christians carrying out the tasks which came to be linked with deacons.
Php 1:1 All Christians are “saints” (that is, set apart for God), but overseers and deacons have specific roles assigned to them.
1Ti 3:8-13 There is no NT description of the precise role of deacons (although Ac 6:1-4 may imply a certain role). These qualifications would be appropriate for people responsible for financial management, administration, and social service, such as that offered to widows; 1Ti 3:11 The women may be deacons’wives (NIV text), or deaconesses (NIV footnote).
Ro 16:1 NIV footnote.
2327 | Christ as servant |
5520 | servants |
7026 | church, leadership |
7372 | hands, laying on |
7706 | apostles |
7718 | elders |
7734 | leaders, spiritual |
7748 | overseers |
7784 | shepherd |
7939 | ministry |
8342 | servanthood |
8492 | watchfulness, leaders |