The Appointment Of Deacons And The Spirit Of Service Series

THE APPOINTMENT OF DEACONS AND THE SPIRIT OF SERVICE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 6:1-7

Key Verse: “And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.” (Acts 6:7)

Supporting Texts: Exodus 18:17-23, Romans 12:6-8, 1 Peter 4:10-11, Philippians 2:3-7, 1 Timothy 3:8-13

INTRODUCTION:

The early church grew rapidly, and with growth came challenges. Acts 6 presents a critical moment in church history when a conflict arose over the distribution of food among widows. The apostles, led by wisdom and the Holy Spirit, appointed deacons to handle the administrative and practical needs of the church so that they could focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word.

This divine order brought balance and progress. The apostles demonstrated the importance of structure, teamwork, and the distribution of responsibilities. They understood that every role in the body of Christ matters, from preaching to serving tables, because all are acts of service to God.

In today’s church, this passage teaches that spiritual growth and numerical increase depend not just on preaching but on effective service. When believers embrace the spirit of service with humility and unity, the church becomes a place of peace, power, and multiplication.

1. THE NEED FOR ORDER AND DELEGATION IN THE CHURCH

The early church faced a practical problem that threatened its unity, but godly wisdom produced a solution that ensured continued growth.

a) Growth Brings Responsibility (Acts 6:1): As the number of disciples increased, needs also multiplied. Growth requires proper organisation and care.

b) Division Weakens Progress (1 Corinthians 1:10): The complaint of the Grecians showed the danger of disunity. Order preserves harmony in the body.

c) Leadership Must Recognise Its Limits (Exodus 18:17-18): Moses’ father-in-law advised him to delegate tasks so he would not be overwhelmed.

d) Delegation is a Sign of Wisdom (Proverbs 11:14): No one can do everything; shared responsibility brings stability and strength.

Biblical Example: Moses appointed capable men over groups of Israel to judge smaller matters while he handled major ones, ensuring peace and efficiency (Exodus 18:21-26).

2. QUALITIES OF THOSE CHOSEN TO SERVE

The appointment of deacons was not a casual selection; it required spiritual and moral qualifications.

a) Men of Honest Report (Acts 6:3): Integrity is the foundation of effective service. God cannot use a dishonest vessel.

b) Full of the Holy Ghost (Ephesians 5:18): Service in God’s house requires spiritual sensitivity, not just skill.

c) Full of Wisdom (Proverbs 4:7): Wisdom ensures right decisions and sound judgment in managing responsibilities.

d) Proven Character (1 Timothy 3:8-10): Deacons must be tested and faithful before being entrusted with greater duties.

Biblical Example: Stephen was a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, whose life and ministry brought glory to God and extended the gospel (Acts 6:5, Acts 7).

3. THE SPIRIT OF SERVICE IS THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST

True service is motivated by humility and love, following the example of Jesus Christ, who came to serve and not to be served.

a) Service is an Expression of Love (Galatians 5:13): Love compels us to serve one another willingly and joyfully.

b) Service Requires Humility (Philippians 2:5-7): Jesus humbled Himself and took on the form of a servant to accomplish God’s purpose.

c) Service Builds the Body of Christ (Ephesians 4:16): Every believer’s contribution helps the church grow stronger and healthier.

d) Service is a Divine Calling (Romans 12:6-8): Each believer has a unique gift meant to serve others and glorify God.

Biblical Example: Jesus washing the disciples’ feet (John 13:4-15) demonstrated the highest model of servant leadership, humility in action.

4. THE RESULTS OF SPIRIT-LED SERVICE IN THE CHURCH

When service is done in order, humility, and the power of the Spirit, the result is unstoppable church growth and divine favour.

a) The Word of God Increases (Acts 6:7): Proper delegation allows ministers to focus on the Word, leading to spiritual advancement.

b) The Church Multiplies (Acts 6:7): Order and unity attract new believers and sustain numerical growth.

c) Believers Mature in Responsibility (Ephesians 4:12-13): Shared service strengthens and equips the saints for effective ministry.

d) God is Glorified (1 Peter 4:11): When every member serves faithfully, God’s presence and glory fill the church.

Biblical Example: The appointment of deacons led to expansion and miracles in the early church. Stephen and Philip became powerful evangelists because they served faithfully (Acts 6:8; Acts 8:5-8).

CONCLUSION:

The appointment of deacons and the spirit of service teach us that God’s work flourishes through order, humility, and cooperation. No one can do everything alone; we need every part of the body to function effectively. God blesses those who serve with sincerity and fills them with power for greater impact.

Let every believer embrace a servant’s heart, ready to meet needs and advance the Kingdom. When the church functions in love and unity, the Word of God increases, and souls are multiplied to the glory of God.