Essential Baptist Principles_™
As taught in the Holy Scriptures
April 1, 2014

Selected Comments

New Testament Patterns
Need for Deacons in the Church

The authority and the need for having Deacons in the New Testament Church is recorded in Acts Chapter 6. “And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore Brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.” (Acts 6:1-3)

Until the Church grew, the Apostles were doing the duties that we now ordain deacons to handle. This scripture is the pattern and authority for us to do so. Even in today's Church there is situations where there is no qualified men to fill the office of Deacon, then I believe it is, orderly for the Minister to do as the Apostles did to fulfill those needs. It has also been customary for sister Church Deacons to assist a small church without deacons especially in the communion service.

The Minister and the Deacon are the only two New Testament offices authorized by the scriptural pattern. The qualifications for the Minister and Deacon are closely aligned, the main exception is the Deacon is not required to be 'apt to teach'. Today as in the early church, Deacons sometimes were ordained to be a Minister. If that occurs then he is no longer a deacon but he holds the new office of Minister, not both.

Elder Claude McKee

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