Blessing of Godly Deacons Part 1

Acts 6:1-7

How do we structure ourselves in the church?

The temptation is to answer this in a PRAGMATIC way - simply do "what works". But to answer in such a way is to start in the WRONG place - man's wisdom (fallen and flawed). Instead, we need to start with the Bible! What does God say about it?

PROBLEM

Racial tension, as it often has been, was the conflict at the beginning of this chapter. Hellenistic widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution.

Now, it is of tremendous importance that the church care for the "widows and orphans".

PRIORITY: The apostles acknowledged it and set up the ministry of deacons. The purpose for this function is to protect the main ministry, which is the preaching of the Word. (v.2)

The office of deacons is to take care of the practical administrations of the church.

PROVISION: Selecting men who are (v.3):

- Of good repute (moral)

-"Filled with the Spirit (spiritual)

- Filled with wisdom (practical)

Another thing to point is that they selected seven Greek men to fix the problem of the racism.

PROGRESS: The Word of God spread. A large number of people became obedient to the faith.

Take great confidence in the template Christ has for His church.

May we always love and pray for our deacons.