Those who “serve” in the Christian community, assisting the elders or overseers (bishops). The Greek word which the NIV translates four times as “deacon” occurs a further 25 times in the NT, where it is translated as “servant”. It seems that all Christians have a general servant role, whereas some (deacons) are called to a specific office of service within the church.
The Seven: assistants to the apostles
Why they were needed
Acts 6:1–4 The verb “wait” means “to serve”.
In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve summoned all the disciples and said, “It is unacceptable for us to neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will assign this responsibility to them and will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
Their qualifications and selection
Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will assign this responsibility to them
Their names and appointment
Acts 6:5–6 Although the Seven are not actually called “deacons”, they were probably the earliest example of Christians carrying out the tasks which came to be linked with deacons.
This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, as well as Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these seven to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
Deacons were assistants to overseers in Philippi
Philippians 1:1 All Christians are “saints” (that is, set apart for God), but overseers and deacons have specific roles assigned to them.
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:
Qualifications for men and women deacons
1 Timothy 3:8–13 There is no NT description of the precise role of deacons (although Acts 6:1–4 may imply a certain role). These qualifications would be appropriate for people responsible for financial management, administration, and social service, such as that offered to widows; 1 Timothy 3:11 The women may be deacons' wives (NIV text), or deaconesses (NIV footnote).
Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued or given to much wine or greedy for money. They must hold to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Additionally, they must first be tested. Then, if they are above reproach, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, the women must be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in all things. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife, a good manager of his children and of his own household. For those who have served well as deacons acquire for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
In the same way, the women must be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in all things.
Phoebe, a deaconess
Romans 16:1 NIV footnote.
I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea.
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.