Originally published in the July 17, 2008 issue of The Evangel.
by Jimmy Hester
"Deacons of First Baptist Church, individually and collectively, are to prayerfully and consistently undergird and support the mission and ministry of the church through moral, spiritual, and servant leadership."
That is the purpose statement for our deacons. But what do our deacons actually do?
(Check all that apply.)
Deacons should . . .
__ 1. Set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
__ 2. Encourage and build up the pastor and other church staff members, one another, and all other church members.
__ 3. Serve as the church's chief administrative board of directors.
__ 4. Be peacemakers within the church body.
__ 5. Assist in the caring and service ministries of the church through faithful service on deacon committees.
__ 6. Regularly police church parking lots during Sommet Center events.
__ 7. Be mindful of the well-being of the church and, as requested or led, give counsel and recommendations for consideration as appropriate to the pastor, other staff members, committees, and the congregation.
Correct answers: 1., 2., 4., 5., 7. (Deacons do not serve as a board of directors nor do they police church parking lots during Predator games.)
Read the correct answers again. What common characteristic runs through these statements? The answer can be summed up in two words: servant leadership. And that is why I agreed to be a deacon if elected.
As I observed the spiritual leadership of our deacons and experienced their service to me and my family, I was honored when set apart as a deacon. But it's more than an honor; it's an opportunity to serve. "Therefore, we must work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith" (Eph. 6:10, HCSB).
