Studying the Bible -- What Are Deacons?

In addition to elders, the New Testament church had deacons. The word translated "deacon" is translated "servant" in other passages. The deacon is a person appointed to be a servant of the church in charge of certain matters. To be a deacon one must meet certain qualifications, 1 Timothy 3:8-13.

The deacon is not a junior elder. Some people consider the hierarchy of the church to be elders then deacons then members. But really, it is elders then members then deacons. The deacons serve the congregation, doing much necessary work, to allow the elders to focus on the oversight of the church. The deacon is not in a position of authority, except as he has authority over tasks assigned by the elders.


References: (King James version)

1 Timothy 3:8-13   "Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."