TEACHING NOTES Introduction In previous session we have been learning about the biblical definition of leadership and the roles of leadership in God’s family. Specifically, we have been learning about the roles of shepherds and deacons. Now that we have chosen and commissioned our shepherds, this session will review the role of deacons and introduce our deacon candidates. ‌ Leaders or Servants? ‌ Luke 22:24–26 24 A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. 25 And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. 26 But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves [Grk. diakonon].” ‌ Session Overview ‌1. What is a deacon? ‌2. Why do we need deacons? ‌3. What are the qualifications? ‌4. Who are we considering? ‌ Deacons in the Bible: ‌ In the Old Testament, the priests were responsible for leading Israel’s worship, teaching, discipline. The Levites served by helping the priests with the other tasks of God’s household. ‌ The New Testament continues this practice by appointing overseers/shepherds and deacons. ‌ What is a deacon? Grk. diakonos = servant, minister, one who is of assistance to others. In writings outside of the Bible a deacon could serve as an intermediary between two parties for the purpose of getting something done. ‌ Why do we need deacons? ‌ Acts 6:1–4 1 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” ‌ Deacons tend to the needs of the church’s ministries and people, so the shepherds can focus on leading and teaching. ‌ Basic Responsibilities for Deacons: ‌- Follow the direction of the shepherds. ‌- Be willing to work with shepherds on major decisions. - ‌Responsible for various ministry areas and tasks. - ‌Provide care to the church family. - ‌Bring difficult or unresolved issues to the shepherds. ‌ What will deacons do? ‌ Family Care: Provide care for our family when they are sick, in financial distress, loss of a loved one, marital issues, etc. Our family needs to know that when they are hurting our deacons will be there for them. ‌ Events: Help prepare for various gatherings by organizing food, room setup, and cleanup. ‌ Housekeeping: Help maintain our building by helping with repairs, taking out trash after gatherings, etc. ‌ What are the qualifications for deacons? ‌ 1 Timothy 3:8–10 8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. ‌ 1 Timothy 3:11–13 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 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. ‌ Qualifications for Deacons: Honorable Tested/Proven Not Hypocritical Not Gossips Not a Drunkard/Addict Self-controlled Not Greedy Faithful in Marriage Faithful Leads Well at Home Deacon Candidates: - Melvin & Marsie Cribbs - Zack & Heather Comstock ‌- Blake & Terra Lightsey - Jimmy & Angie Cash - Marty & Janet Albanese ‌ Please Note: We are starting with five couples, but we have two more couples we are considering to add at a later time. ‌ Next Week: Commission Deacons