Deacon
Category
Church & Ministry
Biblical Definition
A servant-minister set apart for practical and charitable service in the church so that the body's life and witness are strengthened.
Origin(s)
Greek: διάκονος
Transliteration
diakonos
Literal meaning
servant, minister, deacon
Key Scripture(s)
Acts 6:1-7; Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:8-13; Romans 16:1
Theological Significance
The deacon's role highlights that Christ's church is ordered not only by teaching and oversight but also by visible service and care. Ministry in Scripture includes concrete, faithful service to the needs of the body.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
Deacon is not chiefly a status title or a secular board office. In the New Testament it is a recognized form of servant leadership oriented toward the church's practical good.
Practical Application
This doctrine honors humble service, encourages mercy ministry, and calls the whole church to imitate Christ's servant-hearted pattern.