
Acts (Part 11): Deacons & Servant Leadership
As a specific ministry need arose, the church established deacons to fill those needs, in part so the apostles could keep focused on their calling. (Acts 6:1-2)
Elders’ Responsibilities
1. Shepherding the Flock (1 Peter 5:1-3)
2. The Ministry of the Word (Titus 1:5-9, 2 Timothy 2:1-2)
3. The Ministry of Prayer (Acts 6:4)
4. Spiritual Leadership & Oversight (1 Timothy 5:17, 1 Timothy 3:1)
Deacons are servant-leaders who help take care of a specific ministry in the church. (Romans 16:1-2, Acts 6:1-7)
Even though it may appear to us like some of these ministries are “unspiritual,” it is very important that all ministries in the church are taken care of by godly, spiritual leaders. (1 Timothy 3:8-11)
We don’t rise in godly character by trying harder, but by resting in the finished work of Christ on our behalf. (Romans 5:6)
Small Group Discussion Questions
The early church faced an unexpected challenge in its growth: organizational complexity (Acts 6:1). In what ways have you seen even well-intentioned organizational needs or tasks become potential distractions or challenges to the core mission of a church or group you’ve been a part of?
The apostles recognized their primary calling was “to prayer and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4) and empowered others to handle the daily needs. How does this example challenge our own understanding of leadership and service within the church? What are the essential roles that leaders should prioritize, and how can others be empowered to serve effectively?
vThe qualifications for the seven men chosen were “good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom” (Acts 6:3). Why do you think these particular qualities were emphasized for a seemingly practical task like distributing resources? How do these qualities apply to various forms of service and leadership within the church today?
Pastor Josh emphasized that character matters more than competency in leadership. Can you think of examples, either positive or negative, where this principle has been evident in your experience? How can we, as a small group and as individuals, prioritize character development in ourselves and in those we recognize as leaders?
Pastor Josh talked about how the church takes its cues from its leaders. How have you seen this principle play out in the life of a church, organization, or family? What responsibilities does this place on those in leadership positions, and how can the congregation encourage and support godly leadership?
We looked at how all roles in the church are sacred when done with faithfulness, humility, and love (1 Corinthians 12:18, Colossians 3:17). How does this perspective shift our understanding of seemingly “less significant” tasks or roles within the church? How can we cultivate a mindset of serving with godliness in all that we do?
The sermon concludes by emphasizing that our service flows from the grace we’ve received in Christ, not to earn it (Romans 5:8). How does understanding this foundational truth impact our motivation and approach to serving in the church and in the world? How can we ensure our service remains rooted in gratitude rather than obligation?
Reflecting on the passage in Acts 6 and the sermon, what is one practical step you feel God might be calling you or your small group to take in order to better serve the needs of your church or community with godly character and a spirit of humility?