Awake & Alive: 1 Timothy Reading Plan
Day 11
8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Paul continues his outline of qualifications and structuring for the New Testament church. Today’s focus is the position of deacon.
The seemingly important differentiation between this office and that of elder/overseer (unpacked in verses 1-7) is the absence of teaching among the listed roles and qualifications for deacons. This difference has been cited as justification for churches to allow women to serve in this office.
Another important note is that this passage, just like the list of qualifications for elders, primarily focuses on character rather than tasks. This aligns with the letter’s focus on a life transformed by the gospel, rather than specific activities to be completed by the Christ follower. This distinction guards against legalism and a primarily works-based understanding of salvation.
This passage, like the rest of the letter thus far, presents the Gospel as the agent that changes works, not as a message where works are the catalyst for understanding the Gospel. This hierarchical distinction is of primary focus and critical to a proper understanding of this letter.