Has the Church in recent decades lost the understanding of the office of Deacon?
In 1 Timothy 3, we have the qualifications for Deacons. With the exception of “Apt to Teach” the qualifications for Pastor and Deacon are virtually the same, in spite of some different terminology. Although the Deacon is not required to teach, he must be settled in his knowledge of and commitment to the faith (1 Tim. 3:9). Pastor and Deacon are held to the very same high standard. Add to these qualifications the requirements of Acts 6:3 and the Deacon is to be:
Have we, at times failed to recognize the equality of Pastor and Deacon in Spiritual Qualities and Qualifications? When it comes to Deacons, the attitude of “any old man to get the job done” is a serious violation of God’s Word.
The Role of the Pastor