As our society seemingly continues to slip ever further into the abyss there comes an ever greater need for spiritual leadership.
churches, evangelists desiring to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Billy Graham and missionaries of all sorts but where leadership begins is at the family and church level and it is here where the Bible puts before us the role of the deacon to be filled by someone who can as easily fill the requirements of being the spiritual head of his family.
The role of deacon and the first seven to fulfill this role are discussed in Acts 6:1-6. They were to be men of good reputation, filled with the Holy Spirit, wise and given to prayer and the ministry of the Word. One of those men was Stephen of whom Scripture tells us did great wonders and signs. Sadly, because of his devout faith, those who were evil in trying to rid themselves of Stephen’s faithful ways falsely accused him to the point of his being martyred (killed).
It is this strength of faith and witness deacons today are called too. It is for this reason, being called to a high and important position in the church, that we are given a list of strict qualifications. Those qualifications include reverence, sobriety, not greedy, blameless and having wives who are not slanderous, impatient or unfaithful.
This not only will serve the family well but also the church and its believers. For faith to continue and prosper no less than what is asked of deacons should perhaps be expected of us as well so I might ask each of you ARE YOU A SPIRITUAL LEADER?
THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
Deacons by their devotion are to carry out the duties assigned by our Divine Lord and Savior.
DEVOTIONAL VERSE FOR TODAY: Acts 6:1-6 “History of deacons”.
PRAYER FOR TODAY: Lord help me to become a responsible spiritual leader.
QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT:
1. Do you as a spiritual head of your family or church meet Scriptures requirement of a deacon?
2. Should women serve in the role of deacon?
3. Do you consider a deacons qualifications in those who serve as your spiritual leaders (church, spouse, etc.)?
4. How important is the role of a deacons wife?
*** Gary Jerke *** Is a former State Representative, author and Life and Liberty News contributor
View Gary’s website, Encouraging Others in Christ
