A Place of Influence & Honor

Introduction:

For far too long the Diaconate has been demeaned and treated as unimportant. For far too long, some deacons have treated their office as just a glorified title & nothing else.  In 1 Tim. 3:13, Paul concludes his thoughts on the Diaconate.  Through service, deacons can gain significant influence/honor in the church. Deacons have the potential to be a spiritual powerhouse for God.

I.  Deacons gain a place of influence and honor.

A.     3:13 – note that these things apply to deacons who have served well.

B.     Those who serve well gain a high standing.

1.      The context suggests this wording means that the deacon can find an honorable standing for excellent service.

C.    This high standing is achieved through selfless service.

1.      The Diaconate is not a position … it is a function!

2.      Measure of any man is his ministry. Mt. 25:21 – faithful servant.

II. Deacons gain great boldness in the faith.

A.     Confidence (boldness) in the faith indicates…

1.      Openness; firm confidence; boldness.

2.      Opposite of reserve, fear, concealment, timidity.

B.     Boldness is in the faith.

1.      A fixed set of doctrines?  Not really.

2.      But the deacon’s personal faith centered in Jesus Christ.

C.    Take a personal inventory.

1.      Look for ways to do mighty deeds for God & his people.

2.      It is done through your living example of Christ likeness.

D.    Faith is a dynamic quality.

1.      2 Thess. 1:3 – Paul compliments Thessalonians for enlarged faith.

2.      2 Cor. 10:15 – Paul wanted Corinthian’s faith to grow.

3.      But...it can be weak – because it always under attack.

4.      Faith is the key to resisting Him & winning spiritual battles.

a)     Eph. 6:16; 1 John 5:4

b)     Unbelief paralyzes men.  Halts action. Destroys vision. Creates disobedience/discouragement.  Deut. 9:23

E.     3:13 – as deacons faithfully serve – they develop their spiritual lives.

F.     Men of faith are men of action & deeds. Faith constantly trains or grows slack.

III. 3:13 – where is this faith rooted?

A.     Faith is rooted in Christ Jesus – the rock of our salvation.

B.     We’re talking about a Christ centered faith.

C.     John 15:5 – Jesus is the supreme object of our faith.

D.     Faith determines our capacity for God’s service.

1.      Mt. 17:20 – failure?  Lack of faith.

2.      All that we truly do is done according to our faith. Heb. 11:33-34

Conclusion:

A.     The real treasures of the church are its people – not the pews or building.

B.     We’ve talked about faith today.  How strong is yours?  Can we help you get started building your faith?