What is the DIfference Between Elders and Deacons?

Richview is currently in the process of selecting Elders. In October, we will be holding a business meeting to elect our first Board of Elders.

Last week we saw that there are two church offices in the Bible: Elder and Deacon. Elders provide supervision and spiritual guidance for the congregation.

Deacons

Up until now, we have essentially expected our deacons to function as elders. When we give our deacons the dual role of deacon and elder, we give them an unmanageable role and expect too much.

Deacon literally means “servant.” In contrast to elders, deacons do not have ruling authority over the church, nor are they expected to be able to teach.

From Acts 6:1-6 (which may refer to deacons) and 1 Timothy 3:8-13, it seems that deacons had the following functions:

• Caring for the finances of the church
• Administering the affairs of the church
• Ministering to physical needs

The Difference

Elders at Richview will oversee the doctrine, direction, and discipline of the Church.

Deacons will direct the financial, benevolent, ordinance, and facility operations of the Church, as well as directly oversee ministries.

Coming in the next few weeks:

• What will elders do?
• What are the qualifications for elders?