Sermon Tone Analysis

There is no one passage, or combination of passages, that specify the work of deacons, but we can put together a complete picture from several references.

We can reasonably and logically conclude that deacons are under consideration in do not know why God chose not to reveal the work of deacons in a more specific manner, but it does not preclude us from discussing what we can conclude.

I) Office

Jerusalem church appointed deacons, as we can infer from logic; there are offices described – ; ; – and the work performed does not fit any other office, except deacon

Although the term “office” is not used in connection with elders or deacons, the position is clearly and inescapably implied

Fact of qualifications – – requires an “office”

Paul distinguished them from other saints in Philippi –

II) Work of deacons

It has occasionally been noted that in many churches the preacher does the work of the elders, and the elders do the work of the deacons, and the deacons turn out the lights and lock the doors

Definition – diakonos – one who executes the commands of another, esp. a master; servant, attendant, minister – our clearest sense of work is an appointed servant to the local church

Qualifications:

represent the local church (dignity, etc.)

make choices based on godly wisdom (holding mystery of faith)

responsibility (be tested)

managers (not of the whole church, but an appointed duty)

Relates to the material needs of the church (as opposed to the ministry of the word) – – so that elders can devote themselves to spiritual oversight

Specific (not undefined “make-work”) – such as arranging care for needy, making preparations for gospel meetings, keeping track of the budget/treasury, maintaining the building, following up on visitors, arranging transportation

Concl: With zeal and dedication to following God’s plan, every church can appoint qualified men to serve as ministers in a variety of roles.

This will allow bishops to properly devote themselves to the spiritual needs of the flock.