Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business… Acts 6:1-3 [Hellenists were Greek converts to Judaism.]
There has been a difference of opinion about how deacons (and indeed elders) are to be appointed. Biblical texts (Acts 6:3 and Titus 1:5) suggest that these officers of the church are appointed by existing officers of the church. The passage in Acts 6 also suggests that the congregation played a part on selecting the first deacons. So which is it?
There is no clear command on how this is to be done, and as we have said many times, narratives alone, which accurately record what was done, ought not be the basis of doctrine unless a didactic (teaching) passage affirms the narrative as doctrine. Based on this lack of methodological specificity, in the Bible we must may seek to follow what we believe the scriptures say, and be gracious to those who have a different opinion.
What do we at Grace Bible Church (GBC) believe and practice? First, elders and deacons are gifted and chosen by Christ since it is Church. We cannot make a person an elder or deacon—we merely acknowledge who God has chosen. But on the human level, we believe deacons (and elders) are to be appointed by existing elders, with the input and approval of the congregation.
First, why? We believe the scriptures reference the elders making these appointments. We believe that the congregation’s input and approval is wise. We believe that popular congregational elections open the door to serious decisions being made by those who are less than spiritually informed. After all, since I think we would all agree that there are those in every congregation who are less mature, experienced, and spiritually sensitive than those who are already elders. Electing officers of the church ought not be done as though we are electing a class president in High School—based on popularity, or appearances of success.
So how do we do this a GBC? You’ll have to wait until tomorrow’s post.