What Is the Role of a Deacon?

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Matt Perman
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Matt Perman

Matt Perman is the director of career navigation at The King’s College NYC, a blogger, and an author.

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The basic meaning of Greek word group behind the English translation "deacon" (diakon-) suggests the notion of service and servanthood (John 2:5; Romans 15:8; Matthew 20:26; Luke 10:40; Acts 11:29; 12:25), especially in regard to providing practical help with respect to the basic necessities of life (Matthew 4:11; 8:15; 27:55; Luke 10:40; Romans 15;25). The basic task of deacons, then, seems to be helping those in need of food, water, and clothing, as well as ministering through hospitality and welcoming.

Further Resources

"Biblical Eldership," appendix 2, "Deacons"

" Rethinking the Governance Structure of Bethlehem Baptist Church," section 6, "What Did Deacons Do?"

Alexander Strauch, The New Testament Deacon