In the Church of Jesus Christ, there is to be unity—unity in the truth(1 Corinthians 1:10) and unity in love (John 13:35). However, there is also to be diversity in Christ's Church—diversity in gifts and abilities to serve our Savior and one another (1 Corinthians 12:4). Among the various gifts that Jesus gives to His Church is a diversity in church officers: pastors, teachers, elders, and deacons. Church officers are called to be Christ's voice, eyes, hands, and feet in loving, teaching, leading, serving, and caring for Christ's sheep. Church officers are called by Jesus to promote the peace, purity, and unity of Christ's church—that's the goal (Ephesians 4:13).
What were the needs within the church that led the apostles to call for caregivers (deacons) to come alongside them to help in serving Christ and His sheep? Let us consider the circumstances that gave rise to these special caregivers to the needy and the afflicted. The main points are: (1) After Growth Comes Conflict within the Church (Acts 6:1); (2) Deacons Are Appointed to Assist the Apostles in Caring for the Flock (Acts 6:2-4); (3) Qualified Men Are Called to Serve as Deacons (Acts 6:5-7). |