Deacons #7 - 1 Timothy 3 Qualifications

Up to this point, we've primarily been looking at Acts 6 as it pertains to deacons. Now, let's shift our focus to 1 Timothy 3. Too often, 1 Timothy 3:1-7 gets passed over when talking about deacons; but 1 Tim 3:8 begins with the word “likewise,” which means all that has previously been said about the pastor also applies to the deacon. So, let’s look closely at these qualifications.

(vs. 2) Blameless – Not sinless perfection, but no egregious or hidden areas of sin. All known sin has been confessed and wrongs have been made right. (Blameless is also overshadowing and sets the tone for the other qualifications in the passage.)
(vs. 2) Husband of one wife – The Greek text literally reads, "A one woman man."
(vs. 2) Temperate / Sober – Literal meaning is “wineless.” Metaphorical sense: alert, watchful, vigilant, clear-headed.
(vs. 2) Of good behavior – Prudent, well-disciplined, orderly life.
(vs. 2) Hospitable – Loves strangers.
(vs. 2) Able to teach – Only characteristic that relates specifically to giftedness & function.
(vs. 3) Negatives – No wine, not a striker, and no coveting.
(vs.4,5) Well ordered house – Not a perfect family, but well managed
(vs. 6) Not a novice – One who is spiritually mature, tested, and proven.
(vs. 7) Reputation – Good reputation with members & those outside the church.

(vs. 8) Reverent – Men of dignity, serious, and stately.
(vs. 8) Not double-tongued – Honest, consistent, not hypocritical.
(vs. 8) Not given to much wine – Not a habitual practice.
(vs. 8) Not greedy of money – Not “loving” or controlled by money.
(vs. 9) Knowing & obeying Scripture – Wisdom in knowledge & application of Scripture.
(vs. 10) Tested – Proven and mature in their faith.
(vs. 10) Blameless – Not sinless perfection, but no hidden areas of sin. Repentant.
(vs. 12) Husband of one wife –A“one-woman man” faithful & true.
(vs. 12) Well ordered house – Not a perfect family, but well managed

1 Timothy 3 clearly lays out the qualifications for pastors and deacons. No congregation would want a pastor who was unfaithful in church attendance, never tithed or gave to missions, never visited, or led people to Christ. Notice again, the word “likewise” (vs. 8), implies that almost everything that is expected of a pastor should be expected of a deacon. The office of deacon should be filled prayerfully and carefully, because a church will never grow beyond the spiritual level of its leadership.