“Deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.”
- 1 Timothy 3:8-10 (NIV)
We continue our series on Biblical Leadership. . .
So, what does it take to be a deacon/server on God’s leadership team? Here are some observations from our verses for today.
1. If we are not respectable, there’s little hope that we can ever effectively serve others or lead them.
2. We must say what we mean and mean what we say. The words that we speak must not be flippant – they must come from the heart.
3. As Paul says, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (Eph. 5:18). If our actions are controlled by drugs, alcohol, or worse, we aren’t in control of ourselves. How can we shepherd others or advocate the “full sway of the Spirit” in the lives of others?
4. If we are not trustworthy with money, can we expect that others will entrust us with their eternal dispositions?
5. People are looking for leaders who truly believe what they say. If we only have a shallow faith, how can we help others when they come to their own “dark night of the soul”?
6. The only way to earn the trust of people is to earn the trust of people. Churches that take a shortcut to put popular people in leadership irrespective of their track records will regret it every time.
Of course, it’s easy to gloss over these qualifications because, if one is not seeking a leadership role, it’s easy to say, “That doesn’t apply to me.” But, the challenge is, which one of any of these qualifications doesn’t apply to every believer? In other words, why shouldn’t everyone seek to aspire to this level of faith-based behavior?
These are qualities that Jesus held in full-measure. How are we doing at emulating Him?
