The Relationship of the Congregation to Deacons

Wayne Galloway
01/29/14 - N/A

Series: The Service of Deacons

Introduction:

1.  Already in our study we have identified the work of a congregation of God’s people (Acts 5:42, 6:7). 2.  We have addressed the fact that the work of service (Eph. 4:12)—preaching and teaching and caring for material needs within the brotherhood—constitutes this work. 3.  Already we have discussed the way the body is to work together using different roles (elders, deacons, and et. al.) in the accomplishment of the work.  See the following passages on the use of different gifts functioning together in the body (Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:4ff; Eph. 4:11ff; 1 Pet. 4:10ff). 4.  The congregation has a relationship with the deacons.  In addition to selecting them, what is to characterize this relationship? 5.  I am indebted to the work by H. E. Phillips, Scriptural Elders and Deacons, p. 272-273 for many of the ideas below.

Discussion:

I.  Esteem them highly for their works sake (1 Thess. 5:12-13).   While this text has direct application to those who “have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction” the principle is certainly applicable to deacons.

A.  Too often deacons are neglected.  Much of their work takes place behind the scenes.  Not everyone knows about the details of their work and therefore it is often unrecognized.

B.  The congregation needs to recognize their work and show appreciation—to God and to the deacons (Lk. 17:11ff).

1.  In prayer.

2.  Open expression of thanksgiving.  They are working for you as your agent.

3.  Elders need to express appreciation.

4.  Deacons make sacrifices in order to serve.  Appreciate those sacrifices.

C.  What are some ways you could communicate your appreciation?  Ever had deacons over for a meal to express your appreciation?  Would it be appropriate?

II.  Cooperate willingly with them to the fullest of your ability.

A.  This is consistent with the interaction characteristic of the members of the body.

B.  Not asking to cooperate with them in wrong doing obviously.

C.  Too often the work deacons are doing is met with criticism and disagreement and perhaps even protest.

1.  While there was a complaint concerning the Hellenistic widows there does not appear to be criticism, contempt, condemning judgment, etc.

2.  Recognize that deacons are good-willed Christians trying to serve in the best way they can.  They are not your adversaries.

3.  Deacons must often make judgments for the good of the work that may not be what you prefer.  Respect their judgment.

4.  When they are doing work for you do not be overly critical, but as cooperate as best you can.

III.  Communicate your love to those who are serving no matter who they are (1 Thess. 5:13).

A.  Deacons are examples of Christianity.  Encourage the cause of Christ by encouraging them.

B.  Commend and encourage rather than criticizing and rebuking.  Sometimes people think that by withholding positives this will get deacons to do what they want them to do.

IV.  Ours is the greatest cause—the cause of Christ.  We need to encourage and support the cause in every way we can.

Conclusion:

1.  Work together with the deaconate. 2.  The congregation worked together with one another in the care of the widows in Acts 6. 3.  They communicated with one another.  They showed respect. 4.  The work of preaching and teaching the gospel of Christ went forward so that “The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem” (Acts 6:7).