In this week’s passage, Paul wraps up his instructions concerning deacons, repeating some of the same directions he gave concerning elders, and then shares some encouragement for those who serve in this capacity.

Take a look at the passage in 1 Timothy 3:12-13:

Paul returns to the discussion of deacons, after departing from it for a moment to address the woman’s role. He repeats the same injunction he gave concerning elders: they must be the strong leader of a well managed family. They must be a committed husband, and as the NIV2011 put it, “faithful to his wife.” Domestic orderliness and parental control are as essential for the deacon as they are for the elder, and Paul uses identical phrases as in verse 2 and verse 4.

Paul finishes off this section of his letter by offering a promise to those who lead well: they will receive an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith.

By “excellent standing,” Paul is undoubtedly referring to one’s standing before God, although it could refer to the deacon’s influence and standing in the church and community.

“Great assurance” conveys the idea that the leader has the courage and confidence to stand before God in his faith, as well as stand before his community and speak of his faith.

Both of these blessings are built upon the foundation of their faith in Christ Jesus.

Though Paul’s instructions for elders and deacons are detailed and specific, and even somewhat difficult to interpret in light of our cultural changes since Paul’s time, they set the standard high for leaders in the church to be servants to others and people of integrity. It can be no other way.

Do you have any final questions concerning the roles of elders and deacons? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.