Read 1 Timothy 3:8–16
Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not
indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.
1 Timothy 3:8
A pastor friend of mine took a church that was a split from another
church and constantly at war with itself. From what he told me, their
business meetings were something to behold! The church constitution was revered almost as much as the Bible. The people called it
“the green book.” My friend began to teach the people the Word of
God, and the Spirit began to make changes in lives. But the Enemy
stirred up some officers to defy their pastor in a meeting. “You aren’t
following the green book!” they said. My friend lifted his Bible high
and asked, “Are we going to obey the Word of God, or a green book
written by men?”
This was a turning point in the church, and then God blessed it
with wonderful growth and power. A deacon who does not know the
Word of God cannot manage the affairs of the church of God. A deacon who does not live the Word of God but has a “defiled conscience”
cannot manage the church of God. Simply because a church member
is popular, successful in business, or generous in his giving does not
mean he is qualified to serve as a deacon.
Something to Ponder
Have you experienced church disagreements like those noted above?
How did you respond?