Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be so. The author give suggestions and practical ways in which care by deacons can be extend to the non-poor. This ministry is crucial to them as a manifestation of Christ’s compassion and mercy for his church.
Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be the case. After giving some examples of diaconal work in Calvin's Geneva in the form of hospitals and a funding organization, the author gives an evaluation of this work, with lessons for today’s deacons and the ministry of mercy.
Deacons are called to care for the poor and the needy in the church. How do they do this for the needy who are kept in institutions? How do they co-ordinate the work with the directors of those institutions? This article gives ways to handle the work, with a brief history of diaconal work in the Christian church and how can deacons be actively involved with institutions that care for the needy and poor.
This article discusses the role of the congregation in the election of the deacons. It discusses the process of suggesting names, approving them, and the act of electing deacons.
This article discusses three biblical principles that must govern the election and installation of deacons.
Deacons who serve well are promised a reward, according to 1 Timothy 3:13. This article discusses the nature of this reward, the encouragement needed by deacons, and those deacons who will get the reward.
1 Timothy 3:10 notes that deacons must be proved in other to serve in the church. This article explains what it means to prove, and what standard should be used to prove deacons.
Office-bearers are required to keep confidentiality. This article discusses three reasons for the necessity to keep confidentiality and three situations that may tempt office-bearers to break such confidentiality.
To hold a special office in the church means that one is given authority by God and Christ to represent Christ. This article argues that since the deacons have an office they have authority. It discusses how this authority is made public and the implications it must have on the deacons and their work.
This article explains the relationship between language and salvation: God uses language for our salvation, and we use language to show our gratitude.
This article shows how the fall affected the use of language in how we communicate with God and others. It also shows how redemption changes the language in these two relationships.
This article traces the development of many languages from Genesis 11. It shows how from there, language worked to separate God’s people from the world.
Deacons are called to care for the poor and the needy. This means deacons must be able to determine and relieve need. This article explains that deacons must distribute alms according to the need, sincerely desiring to help the poor and show genuine love of Christ. The manner and condition of alms distributions are discussed.
What is the work of deacons? Deacons are called to care for the poor and the needy. This article explains the steps needed to determine the financial need of the family in need of help. It also discusses the attitude that must clothe the deacons as they carry out this task of determining the need.
What is the work of deacons? Deacons are called to care for the poor and the needy. However, to fulfil this task deacons need means. This article looks at what the deacons are to collect, and their responsibility to preserve what they collect.
What is the work of deacons? To answer this question one must understand the principles that govern the work of deacons. This article examines the Reformed confessions and the biblical evidence to establish the principles that point to the nature of the work of deacons.
Not only are the church and its elders responsible for the election and installation of deacons, but the nominee has a responsibility too. This article discusses the nominee’s responsibility, and the reason for removing someone from the nomination list.
Though the church is involved in the election and installation of deacons, the church council has the responsibility to exercise supervision in the process. This article explains why such supervision is needed and how it should be done.
What is the work of deacons? Deacons are called to care for the poor and the needy. Should deacons allow the needy and poor within the church to be cared for by civil organizations? This article looks at the relationship between diaconal work and civil organizations offering social grants and relief to the poor.
What is the work of deacons? Deacons are called to care for the poor and needy. This article explains that this care is not limited to those within the church, but is also for those who were members of the church but who moved away from the congregation. It explains how such care must be conducted and the warning to guard against burdening other churches.
How can Christians reach out to Buddhists? This article explains the history and origin of Buddhism, its teaching, and its contrast to Christianity, and it shares some ways of witnessing to Buddhists.
The truth that Christ is our merciful High Priest is the basis for the diaconate. This article shows that Christ continues his high-priestly work through the office of deacons.
The office of deacon has a special place within Reformed churches. This article traces the development of such a place throughout the history of the Reformed churches.
This article gives a historical overview of the development of the office of deacon since the Reformation.
From 1 Timothy 3:8-12 this article explains the qualification of deacons in terms of their relationship to their family.
From 1 Timothy 3:8-12 this article explains the qualifications for deacons, focusing on their conduct.
The first qualification for deacons, based on 1 Timothy 3 and Acts 6:3, is that they must be men. This article explains what kind of men they should be.
Through the diaconate Christ is present with his church, and deacons administer Christ’s mercy. This article based on 1 Timothy 3 shows that the standard required to be a deacon is a high one. It points out that this standard should at the same time characterize every Christian.
Through also the diaconate Christ is present with his church, and deacons administer Christ’s mercy. This article explains why the subject of qualifications of deacons is so important.
The development of the hierarchical structure in the church, the unbiblical understanding of the responsibility of the deacons, and the modification of the biblical qualifications of office of deacons are what led to the deformation of the office. This is what the article explains.
What should the Christian response be to the prevailing call for tolerance? This article answers this question by looking at both intolerance and tolerance.
What is the work of deacons? Theyare called to care for the poor and the needy. Is this care limited to those within the church? This article argues that deacons also serve their congregation and Christ by caring for the unbelieving poor. The article gives biblical ground for such care, as well as its significance in pointing the unbeliever to the mercy of God shows us in removing our sins.
Deacons are called to care for the poor and the needy. Is this care limited to those only within the church? This article argues that deacons also serve their congregation and Christ by caring for the believing poor outside of their congregation. The principle for this care is the unity of the body of Christ. Guidelines are given on how this is to be done.
What is the work of deacons? They are called to care for the poor and needy. This article discusses how part of expressing this care is through visiting the distressed, reading the Scriptures with them, and praying with them. These visits manifest the love of Christ for his people in distress.
There are sometimes situations that may force a deacon to resign or be removed from office. This article discusses issues related to the resignation of a deacon as well as the removal of a deacon from office.
This article considers how long should deacons serve in office, and after how long are they eligible for nomination again.
This article explains the significance of the installation ceremony for the deacons and the congregation.
How is possible that one can lie against the Holy Spirit? This article affirms that to lie to office bearers as they do their work is to lie against the Holy Spirit. One lies to the Holy Spirit by lying to the church in general by failing to keep promises and vows (Acts 5:3-9). Awareness that this is lying against God and treasuring the work of the Spirit will keep one from committing these sins.
How is possible that one can sin against the Holy Spirit? This article discusses the sin of grieving the Spirit (Isaiah 63:10 and Ephesians 4:30). Grieving the Spirit occurs when one refuses to live a sanctified life.
What does blasphemy against the Holy Spirit mean? This article defines the meaning of blasphemy against the Spirit and the characteristics of this sin, making it clear that this sin cannot be committed by a child of God. This sin is labeled as an unforgivable sin because of God's justice. However, God protects believers against committing this sin. All other sins can be forgiven by God.
How is possible that one can sin against the Holy Spirit? Understanding who the Holy Spirit is is crucial to understanding how can one sin against the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God, and a distinct person within the Trinity. He works sanctification in those who believe. The nature of His person and work makes it possible to understand that one can sin against the Holy Spirit.
This series of articles looks at the qualifications required in order to be an elder in the church based on 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. This article discusses the elder's relationship with his wife and children, and the manner in which he leads his household.
This series of articles looks at the qualifications required in order to be an elder in the church based on 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. This article focuses specifically on 1 Timothy 3:2-4. Must a man be married and have children in order to serve as an elder? Can unmarried men or married men without children also serve?
This series of articles looks at the qualifications required in order to be an elder in the church based on 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. This article discusses what it means that elders must be blameless.
This series of articles looks at the qualifications required in order to be an elder in the church based on 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. This article discusses whether women can be office-bearers, concluding that God only calls men to serve as elders in the church.
This series of articles looks at the qualifications required in order to be an elder in the church based on 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. This article discusses whether women can be office-bearers, concluding that God only calls men to serve as elders in the church.
Looking at 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1, this article gives an overview of the qualifications required in order to be an elder in the church.
In order to rightly understand the office of elder, one must know the development of this office throughout history. This article looks at the struggle during the Reformation to restore God's church to be as He wants it. This struggle also included the fight for the restoration of the office of elders.
In order to rightly understand the office of elder, one must know the development of this office throughout history. This article looks at the role of elders in the New Testament. The author shows that there is a link between the Old Testament synagogue model and the formation of elders during the apostolic era.
In order to rightly understand the office of elder, one must know the development of this office throughout history. This article looks at the development of this office during the Babylonian captivity, throughout the intertestamental period, and into the New Testament. The author looks at the synagogue system and the role of New Testament elders in supervising the worship service and spiritual life.
In order to rightly understand the office of elder, one must know the development of this office throughout history. This article looks at the history of this office from the time of Adam, Moses, and the prophets. The author also discusses the qualifications of elders and their duty to bring God's Word.
Jesus Christ rules His church through the office of elders. The rule of Christ takes place through the consistory – a body of elders standing together. This article provides the scriptural support for this body of elders, and shows the necessity of having a group of elders rather than one elder.
Jesus Christ rules His church through the office of elders. This presence of Christ is manifested in the work of the elders. The rule of the elders on Christ’s behalf consists of feeding, nourishing and protecting Christ's Church.
Looking at the teaching of scripture and the reformed Confessions, this article defines the nature of the office of the elder. The author concludes that the nature of this office is that of rule. Elders are called to rule Christ's church on His behalf. The author closes the article by giving reasons why God instituted such an office for His church.
This article is a continuation of the previous articles entitled Diaconal Conferences. Considering the difficult nature of their work, this article is designed to encourage deacons to do their work faithfully and diligently. It is a call to both elders and the congregation to encourage deacons. The author also highlights that Christ promises a reward for faithful deacons - this also is a great encouragement to deacons to perform their work to the best of their abilities.
The coming together of deacons nationally can be of great benefit to the ministry of mercy. The author of these articles encourages the practice of diaconal conferences, discussing the biblical grounds for it, it's purpose, and the way in which it should be organized.
The coming together of deacons nationally can be of great benefit to the ministry of mercy. The author of these articles encourages the practice of diaconal conferences, discussing the biblical grounds for it, it's purpose, and the way in which it should be organized.
This series of articles continues the discussion of the office of deacons. Looking at 1 Timothy 5:9-10 and 1 Timothy 3:11, this series focuses on how women in the church can support the work of the diaconate. This article provides a practical method in which women can function as assistants to deacons.
This series of articles continues the discussion of the office of deacons. Looking at 1 Timothy 5:9-10 and 1 Timothy 3:11, this series focuses on how women in the church can support the work of the diaconate. This article gives a historical survey of how these texts were implemented in Reformed churches from the time of the Reformation up to the present.
This series of articles continues the discussion of the office of deacons. Looking at 1 Timothy 5:9-10 and 1 Timothy 3:11, this series focuses on how women in the church can support the work of the diaconate. This article gives a historical survey of how these texts were implemented in the early church and the middle ages in regard to the role of women in the church.
This series of articles continues the discussion of the office of deacons. Looking at 1 Timothy 5:9-10 and 1 Timothy 3:11, this series focuses on how women in the church can support the work of the diaconate. The church today should realize that although the office of deacon is held by men, women can play a significant role in fulfilling this ministry of mercy.
These two articles build off of the series entitled The Congregation's Support of Her Diaconate. Is it the obligation of each church member to financially support the ministry of the Gospel? This article looks at the Old Testament in order to answer this question. The author discusses tithing, free will offerings, and assessed fees, showing that these were given to support the tabernacle and temple ministry.
These two articles build off of the series entitled The Congregation's Support of Her Diaconate. Is it the obligation of each church member to financially support the ministry of the Gospel? The author first defines what the ministry of the Gospel is, and then discusses paying the minister, providing a place of worship, and supporting mission work.
The church of Jesus Christ must supply her deacons with that which they need to do their work. This call has implications for the daily life of the believer. First of all, the believer must work as a means to generate a living so that support from deacons is not needed. The beliver is also called to share from this income with the poor. Secondly, this call affects one’s stewardship.
The church of Jesus Christ must supply her deacons with that which they need to do their work. Therefore, giving for the care of the poor must be a priority for the church, and must be an act of the church as an institution. But even more, giving is an act of worship to the Lord. The church’s giving is obedience to, love for, and gratitude to God for all He has done for us in Jesus Christ.
The church of Jesus Christ must supply her deacons with that which they need to do their work. How does the church do this? Through giving, answers the author. How should the church give? The author answers again: according to what God has given you, generously, and sacrificially. God cares also about the attitude we have toward giving; hence, giving must be done with sincerity of heart, cheerfully, and out of trust that God will supply what we need.
This article gives a sobering reminder of the congregation's responsibility to support the diaconate. Caring for the poor and needy is the work of the congregation as well as the deacons. This article establishes the biblical ground for this calling, showing that the call is to the congregation as a whole, but also to each and every member of the congregation.
Anyone who is called to be a deacon must also possess the desire to fulfill this office. In this article the author shows that with the desire to be a deacon comes the responsibility to examine oneself to see if one is qualified according to the biblical standard. These standards encompass how the man treats his wife and children and how he is involved in the church prior to entering into the office of deacon.
Anyone who is called to be a deacon must also possess the desire to fulfill this task. At the same time, one must be able to distinguish between right and wrong motivations behind this desire, and the way in which the desire is expressed. Having a desire for the office of deacon does not guarantee the call, but is necessary for it.
According to Exodus 31:13, the Sabbath is a sign of the covenant. In order to properly understand the meaning of the Sabbath, one must understand the nature of the covenant God gave His people. The Sabbath is given by God as a reminder of the everlasting Sabbath. In heaven it will always be Sabbath.
What should the relationship between elders and deacons look like? Should deacons be part of the consistory meeting? This article provides a historical perspective on the practice of deacons and elders working together.
What should the relationship between elders and deacons look like? This distinguishes between work which must be done by the consistory and work which is to be done by deacons. The author also discusses shared tasks.
Looking at the Belgic Confession Article 30, Scripture (Philippians 1:1, 1 Timothy 3:8-13) and church history, the author of this article maintains that elders and deacons are called to work together.
Diaconal work is a great blessing for the church. How can deacons be more effective? Deacons’ meetings can be a great benefit to the congregation, the poor and the deacons themselves. This article gives an example of a typical deacons' meeting.
Diaconal work is a great blessing for the church. How can deacons be more effective? Deacons’ meetings can be a great benefit to the congregation, the poor and the deacons themselves. This article gives an example of a typical deacons' meeting.
Diaconal work is a great blessing for the church. How can deacons be more effective? Deacons’ meetings can be a great benefit to the congregation, the poor and the deacons themselves.
Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be the case. Deacons are also called to care for the non-poor. This is the last article in a five part series on the role of the deacon. This article provides practical suggestions for deacons to assist them in their care for non-poor Christians.
Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be the case. Deacons are also called to care for the non-poor. This is the fourth article in a five part series on the role of the deacon. This article evaluates the previously mentioned Geneva examples of diaconal work, drawing lessons for today's deacons.
Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be the case. Deacons are also called to care for the non-poor. This is the third article in a five part series on the role of the deacon. This article discusses a church fund that existed in the time of John Calvin as an example of this diaconal work.
Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be the case. Deacons are also called to care for the non-poor. This is the second article in a five part series on the role of the deacon. This article discusses the hospital in Geneva in the time of John Calvin as an example of this diaconal work.
Diaconal work is always associated with caring for the poor. This article argues that this should not be the case. Deacons are also called to care for the non-poor. This is the first article in a five part series on the role of the deacon. This article discusses the biblical and historical grounds for diaconal care for non-poor Christians, concluding with an example from the time of John Calvin.
