Though I don’t consider this resource central to my theological development, it offers valuable encouragement for those who serve as deacons in our churches. While the author clearly holds a different perspective on church officer designations, their emphasis on inspiring God’s work through faithful servants like deacons provides a useful reminder.
The author recognizes those who serve in the church are often doing so “in a world that often rewards image over integrity and platform over faithfulness.” Answering the call to serve their church family is “sacrificial and humble.” In an effort to strengthen their resolve, the author of this article highlights five callings they must hold:
First, “shepherd the flock among you” (1 Peter 5:2). This responsibility requires ensuring congregants receive spiritual nourishment through God’s Word, attentive care for their needs, and consistent prayer support. While comprehensive knowledge of every individual may be impractical, personal shepherding relationships remain vital. As the author emphasizes, “[This] is not just about oversight—it’s about presence.”
Second, “be an example to those who believe” (1 Peter 5:3). Though preaching may primarily fall to pastors, other leaders in the church collectively safeguards the faithful proclamation of Scripture. Their lived experiences function as powerful, unspoken sermons, as “the church watches how you live, how you love your families, how you respond to criticism, and how you pursue holiness.”
Third, “share in the burden of leadership” (Titus 1:5), distributing responsibilities across the leadership team rather than concentrating them with a single individual.
Fourth, “support and encourage the senior pastor” (1 Timothy 5:17; Exodus 17:12). Pastoring “is a weighty and often lonely place,” as faithful pastors shoulder the burdens of clear gospel proclamation, spiritual guidance, and soul care—”sometimes silently, and always imperfectly.” It is important for the deacons to support and encourage the pastor so he fulfills his responsibilities more excellently.
Finally, “keep fellow elders accountable” (Galatians 2:11). Paul’s direct confrontation of Peter regarding ethnic partiality illustrates this principle in action. Such accountability is not politically motivated but pastorally necessary—”gospel-centered accountability for the sake of the whole church.”
Together, these five callings provide a comprehensive framework for biblical eldership that balances authority with servanthood, vision with accountability, and leadership with example.
Disclaimer: Information in my “slip-box” doesn’t necessarily reflect my agreement with the source or all its content. Recording diverse perspectives helps strengthen one’s position beyond the echo chamber of like-minded thinkers. By documenting alternative viewpoints, we engage in the intellectual wrestling match that ultimately deepens our understanding.
I aspire to post one note from my “slip-box” every weekday. If you want to learn more about how to work with knowledge, click this link: What is knowledge management?
