Biblical Authority of Deacons

Acts 6:1-7 (KJV), “And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look among you for seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

And the saying pleased the whole multitude; and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte of Antioch, Whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. And the word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and many priests became obedient to the faith.

1. FAITH – Faith is taking God at His Word. A Deacon must be strong in Faith.
2. PRAYER – Prayer is the vehicle for man to communicate with God, and God with man. Prayer is a conversation with God the Father, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus Christ.
3. HOLY BIBLE – The Bible is the infallible, inerrant Word of God. The Bible directs our paths, illuminates our minds, and feeds our souls.
4. HYMNAL – Music sets the atmosphere for Worship. A Deacon should know songs of praise, worship, deliverance, and restoration. A Godly message can be delivered from heart to heart, through a song.

1. Making sure that he receives adequate compensation. This includes salary, health benefits, housing allowance, convention fees and travel, etc
2. Praying for him and encouraging him.
3. Protecting his reputation.
4. Promoting the vision of the house.
5. Positioning themselves as his armourbearers and standing in the gap as needed.

1. Attending services regularly and participating in the work of the church.
2. Supporting the Church financially through Tithes and offerings.
3. Encouraging indifferent and inactive members, and praising active and faithful ones.
4. Supporting the decisions of the Church even when they are in the minority.
5. Discouraging envy, jealousy, backbiting, and strife.
6. Guarding sacredly any confidence entrusted to them.
7. Bearing witness to the unsaved, appealing to them to accept Christ and join the Church.
8. Visiting those who are sick and shut-in, and by serving them the Lord’s Supper upon request.
9. Consoling those who are bereaved.
10. Providing financial support to those in need.