Who Should I Nominate to be a Deacon? - Corey Jackson
Fall 2022-Summer 2023 is a year of officer training at Trinity Park. If you are a member of our church you are invited to nominate men for the offices of elder and deacon during the month of January. Some of you may be wondering what character qualities to look for when nominating someone to be a deacon. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions I’ve received over the years during the nomination process about the office of deacon.
Where do we find the office of deacon in Scripture?
In Acts 6:1-7 as elders were overwhelmed as they attempted to meet both the word and the deed needs of the church. So in Acts 6, seven men were chosen and ordained to be the first deacons. These men - importantly - were full of wisdom and of the Holy Spirit. They were called to lead the church’s deed-oriented ministries so that the elders could keep their focus on teaching ministries.
What are the qualifications for the office of deacon?
Along with Acts 6 we have a more specific description of qualifications in I Tim 3:8-13:
8 Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. 11 In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. 12 A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
Similar to the office of elder, the vast majority of these qualifications have to do with godly character. But we also find another important qualification is in verse 9: “they must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.” Like elders, the doctrine and faith deacons keep is vital.
One VERY common error to fight against when considering who to nominate for the office of deacon: Some people think if you are a responsible business man who’s able to manage the resources of a corporation, then you’re qualified to be a deacon. But while being responsible with corporate resources doesn’t disqualify you from being a deacon, it doesn’t qualify you either. The Diaconate is much more than a committee of men dedicated to maintaining property and and budget, they are a fellowship of spiritual leaders who are called to care for the physical needs of God’s people.
So, what questions should you ask yourself when you’re considering who to nominate for the office of deacon?
Is this person able to care for the practical needs of the church through deed-oriented service?
Can this person lead Trinity Park to make sure we are ALL serving one another well?
Would you send this person to represent God’s church by helping someone in a physical or financial crisis?
Use this NOMINATION FORM to submit your nominations.