Holding Deep Truths

Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. (I Timothy 3:8-10) 

          Elders, or overseers had to live up to some tough standards. Paul makes it clear that deacons were no different. While the elders had the responsibility of leading the congregation, deacons were the servants. They had the responsibility of practical matters. Their role was, and is, important. For the most part, the elders dealt with larger matters and the congregation as a whole. Deacons faced individuals, their needs and their imperfections, and had charge over the well-being of the most vulnerable members of the congregation. If the elders needed to live up to certain expectations, it was at least as important that the deacons do so. It still is.

          There’s something in this passage that I would have expected to be in the passage dealing with elders. Deacons must hold to the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. Paul doesn’t say that about the elders. The “likewise” suggests that it went without saying that it was true of elders, too, but he doesn’t say it. The fact that he says it of deacons tells me that Paul wanted to make sure that deacons, the men who dealt with the most vulnerable, were doctrinally solid.  

          There’s a lot of talk today about “just” believing and about not needing church and doctrine. Just be nice to one another…and to that, Paul says, “No, that’s not enough.” That’s especially not enough when the going gets tough for someone and it’s your job to try to help. It’s especially not enough when you’re the one who is supposed to help the most vulnerable, and the temptation comes to not do what is right in the right way. 

          Of course, the reality is that the job of serving others isn’t limited to deacons. It’s my job, and yours. We all need to live up to these standards, including the standards for our doctrine. Some people say that knowledge is power. We are woefully uneducated.