Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Nov 27, 2024 - The Character of Deacons”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsThe Character of Deacons
Reading: 1 Timothy 3:8-13
Just as he has given guidelines for the character of overseers, so Paul advises Timothy as to what “deacons” should be. The word translated “deacon” in this text is the generic term for a servant. Paul has in mind a special class of servants who will be a unique part of how the church accomplishes its work. “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain”(1 Tim 3:8). Like elders/overseers, Paul expects deacons to have developed personal discipline in their speech, addictions, and view of money. “They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience,” meaning that they grasp the gospel and make earnest effort to live by it.
Paul also warns against prematurely appointing men to the work: “And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless”(1 Tim 3:10). He is not advocating “provisional” deacons who must prove themselves over a probationary period; he is highlighting men who have distinguished themselves as trustworthy by prior behavior. Paul has guidelines for deacons’ wives (1 Tim 3:11) and home lives: “Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well”(1 Tim 3:12). Like overseers (1 Tim 3:4), deacons demonstrate their fitness to serve by the way they show fidelity to their wives and manage their children. He wants Timothy to promote this kind of selfless work as a tone-setter for the church and a way to accomplish important spiritual tasks. “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”(1 Tim 3:13).
God’s plan for local churches includes men who are devoted to serving in special ways. They are trustworthy and dependable; the church is counting on them. They are examples in character, knowledge, and relationships. Most of all, they are like Jesus because they are willing to serve.
-----------
One Thing to Think About: Is my conscience clear (1 Tim 3:9)?
One Thing to Pray For: God to continue to raise up men of character to serve his people
