Part 2 of Bob Deffinbaugh’s three-part series exploring the relationship elders have with deacons.
Lecture Outline Detailed Outline Remember ItInitially, distribution was person to person. As the church grew administration became necessary so the apostles became involved. Later this distribution responsibility became the elders, then eventually leaders were chased by the congregation to oversee this ministry.
Prayer and ministry of the Word.
The apostles delegated to the congregation as a whole the selection of the seven men. Their selection was to be based on stringent qualifications. The men were then brought to the apostles who commissioned them by a public laying on of hands.
- What expectations/demands are there of elders in your church that are impossible? What can you as an individual do to “own the problem” or at least help resolve it?
- As the speaker points out, neither the word "deacon" nor "elder" is used in Acts 6. What has been your thinking about the appropriateness of applying this passage to later teaching on the role of elder and deacons? Do passages like Philippians 3:17 help?
- Does this passage teach that those involved in the "spiritual" work of prayer and teaching the Word are never involved in the practical ministries of the church? Should they not lead by example? How do you see it?
- In your church, are there people capable of teaching the word, but who do not have time to adequately prepare because of other responsibilities?
- How much time is given to prayer by the elders or leaders of your church? How often are you involved in praying together with and for the church? How often do you attend special times of prayer? Do you schedule prayer as a priority in your calendar, or do you try to fit it in after everything else has been scheduled?
- Make a list of the elders and the responsibilites they each are involved in. What can they be relieved of so that they can spend more time in their areas of giftedness?