THE OFFICE. 1st Timothy 3:10. Deacons must be doctrinally sound so they can understand and obey Christian doctrine. Decisions based on the Word of God and supported by godly lives are essential for those who represent the assembly. A deacon who does not know the Bible hinders progress in the assembly. Those who lead God's people need to be tested and proven. An untested Christian is an unprepared Christian. Godly homes are a stronghold of faith and show maturity that carries over into church life. Our home life influences our church life.
The wives of deacons should be exemplary because what one commits to in marriage, the other should also be committed to. A unity of life and purpose is so close that each complements the other. These moral standards are expected in both the deacon and his wife. Marital stability adds strength to all the ministries in which a deacon is involved. Good family management and mutual respect between husband and wife enhance the credibility of his service.
This is not a room reserved for the comfort of leading men in a local fellowship but rather a specific task assigned to them. The ministry is defined and entrusted to them by the Holy Spirit, who outlines the deacon’s role. Neither the role nor the task should be taken lightly. It is God and His people whom we serve. We should not avoid or shirk the responsibilities connected to this work; God Himself observes, evaluates, empowers, and rewards the work they do.
“Daily ministrations” suggest that some tasks are performed repeatedly, as some people's needs recur every day. In the lives of older adults, assistance is often required daily for simple activities and to read and pray with them. Those who face ongoing health issues and suffering may need basic comforts to survive. They wait for you to come with joy and anticipation, providing them daily comfort as they live in isolation and loneliness.
A “church business” needs attention—the management of goods and finances for distribution. This work is never easy, as no matter what you do, there will always be some in the group you cannot satisfy. But remember, it is an “office." We understand that such work is not smooth and requires faith, diligence, and perseverance. The Holy Spirit provides wisdom as He guides you through these tasks, and maintaining a reputation of honesty will help demonstrate that in all these efforts, the Lord provides answers in peace to lead when you earnestly seek Him.
The spiritual life of a deacon confirms the opinions and judgments he makes as he serves the Lord and His people. Many people do not live by faith and do not understand "the faith" as a body of truth for us to know and live by. The deacon needs this "mystery" to guide his conscience and conduct. What we do and teach must be tested to ensure it is genuine to us and others. Others will see the reality of the faith as we consistently follow divine truth. This does not refer to passing a test after completing a course of study but to receiving God's approval through ongoing testing over time and righteous living. This evaluation isn't a one-time event but a continuous process of a life and ministry being constantly validated by God. God prepares and intends to keep fit, one who represents Him.
There will be a willingness to work and an excellent reputation among God's people. This will be established because serving the local church is a serious matter. Besides this, there is assurance before God and men that their ministry can be trusted to be right. Deacons serve in both administrative duties and spiritual ministry. In these areas, sisters also serve by showing mercy, hospitality, and teaching consistent with their role in the assembly. They are to teach younger women family values and responsibilities to help their husbands in their leadership if she has one, guiding those who need to be taught.