Scriptural Qualifications of a Deacon

(1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Acts 6:3)

  • Full of the Holy Ghost.
  • Sober-minded.
  • Not a drunkard.
  • Truthful and honest. Not deceitful.
  • Not greedy of money.
  • Believing and living the true doctrine.
  • Faithful.
  • Proven. Not a novice but experienced.
  • Full of wisdom.
  • Of honest and good report.
  • Blameless.
  • The husband of one living wife (polygamy/adultery prohibited).
  • Wife is to be sober, dignified, faithful, and not a gossip.
  • Children are in subjection.
  • Home is in proper care and order.

Ordination

What is Ordination?

Ordination is the recognition of a minister’s call and qualifications by the laying on of hands of other ordained ministers. Paul instructed Titus to “Ordain elders in every city” (Titus 1:5). To “ordain” means to appoint, to arrange, or set in order. Paul told Timothy to “stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands” (2 Tim. 1:6). There are other scriptural examples that demonstrate ordination as the divine appointment of ministers being acknowledged by the church in separating or consecrating the minister to a specific work.Read more