Qualifications of Deacons

Deacons have specific qualifications that are clearly outlined in Scripture. Each deacon should be an active member of the church and possess the qualifications that are described in 1 Tim. 3:8-13. The qualifications for deacons can be divided into two categories: personal character and spiritual character.

Personal Character: — 1. A man of dignity, reverent, he must be worthy of respect, serious minded, not treating serious things lightly (1 Tim. 3:8; Titus 2:7). 2. Not double-tongued; not hypocritical in speech (3:8). 3. Not addicted to much wine; a man of sobriety (3:8). 4. Not fond of gain and greedy for money (3:8; 1 Pet. 5:2). 5. Married — husband of one wife with children, ruling their own household well (3:12). 6. His wife must be reverent, serious in mind and character; not silly or flippant about important matters. Not slanderers, nor is she a malicious gossip. She is to be temperate, alert, vigilant, clear-headed, and sober. She is to be faithful in all things — absolutely trustworthy in all aspects of her life (3:11).

Spiritual Character: — 1. Must hold “to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience,” must have convictions based on the knowledge of true biblical doctrine (3:9). 2. Must be a man already tested and proved to be faithful (3:10). 3. Morally pure in every way (3:10, 12). 4. A spiritual guide to his family (3:12; Eph. 6:4).

Remember a deacon is a servant in the church. Let us keep each of these qualifications in mind as we look at our men in our own congregation whom we might put forth to be considered as deacons.
Ron Drumm

April 16, 2010