Distinguishing Elders and Deacons
There are two offices named in the New Testament. How do we distinguish between elders and deacons?
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Qualifications for the offices of elders and deacons are described in 1 Timothy 3:1-13. There are five main similarities and three main differences.
Similarities
- A blameless reputation
- A manager at home
- Godly character
- Spiritual maturity
- Plurality
Differences
- Teaching vs well-taught
- Oversight vs service
- Shepherding vs practical doing
Q&A
- How do women fit into the roles of elders and deacons?
- What biblical evidence is there that deacons should specifically serve practically?
- What kind of teaching do elders need to be able to do?
- What office should a women's worker fit into?
- Should non-elders with a gift for preaching be asked to preach?
- How do you balance grace with reputational damage?
- Is hospitality an elder or deacon job?
- How do you select and appoint deacons?
- Should you appoint a deacon who serves outside of the church?
This is the first talk of five from Trusted Hands: the post-conference event that followed the 2024 Leaders' Conference. It included five sessions with Brian Croft to help explore how to train and deploy volunteer leaders across the church.
