How to Become a Baptist Deacon
The word “deacon” comes from “diakoneo,” meaning “to serve tables.” This shows the deacon’s role is all about humble service. In Baptist churches, deacons help by feeding the hungry, comforting the grieving, and supporting pastors. It’s not about having power—it’s about showing Jesus’ love through service.
Deacons must follow strict rules from I Timothy 3:8-13. They need to be morally upright, manage their homes well, and have a good reputation. For over 2,000 years, deacons have been key to keeping churches healthy. This guide will help you understand how to become a baptist deacon by following these timeless rules.
Key Takeaways
- Deacons serve as biblical officeholders alongside pastors, rooted in Acts 6 and I Timothy 3.
- Qualifications stress character over charisma, requiring moral seriousness and household stability.
- Becoming a church deacon involves a formal process including nominations, interviews, and church approval.
- Servant leadership defines the role, focusing on acts like visiting the sick and financial stewardship.
- Annual commitments and spiritual disciplines ensure ongoing alignment with God’s calling.
Understanding the Role of a Baptist Deacon
The role of a Baptist deacon goes back to the early Christian days. In Acts 6:1-7, seven men were picked to help widows. This was the first time deacons were mentioned. They were tasked with helping out, fighting for justice, and letting leaders focus on prayer and teaching.
Biblical Foundations of the Deacon Role
Important Bible verses set out what deacons should be like. 1 Timothy 3:8-13 says they should not love wine or money too much. They also need to manage their homes well. These points show deacons are reliable with people and things.
- Administering church finances and property
- Supporting pastoral care through visitation and counseling
- Ensuring smooth execution of worship services and events
| Biblical Era | Modern Practice |
|---|---|
| Provided for widows and orphans | Oversee outreach programs and community service |
| Assisted apostles in daily tasks | Collaborate with pastors on strategic decisions |
God’s Word stresses being honest: “Deacons must be dignified, not double-tongued” (1 Timothy 3:8). This rule is key in Baptist church leadership today.
Understanding the Role of a Baptist Deacon
Deacons play a key role in supporting the church and caring for its members. They handle practical tasks, allowing pastors to focus on spiritual guidance. Learning about these duties is essential for those on the path to becoming a deacon.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
Some of their main tasks include:
- Visiting those in hospitals, homes, and new attendees to offer support.
- Helping families in need with meals, childcare, or financial help.
- Managing church finances with honesty, needing two deacons to prevent misuse.
- Keeping the facilities safe and ready for worship and events.
- Planning outreach events to build community and welcome new members.
Deacons focus on serving, not controlling. They might organize meals for grieving families or fix facilities in emergencies. Their work is in line with deacon responsibilities like those in Acts 6:1-6, where leaders served the community.
“Deacons must be men of dignity, not lovers of money…” (1 Timothy 3:8 NIV)
To be a deacon, one must be humble and willing to serve. Understanding these deacon responsibilities is a critical step. Their work fosters spiritual growth and unity in the congregation.
Understanding the Role of a Baptist Deacon
Deacons play a key role in a church’s health. They help keep the community united and move God’s mission forward. To become a deacon, one must be ready to serve with kindness and wisdom.
“Faithful deacons serving the Lord by serving the people were LARGELY responsible for the new growth in the early New Testament Church.”
Key Contributions to Church Health
- Facilitating conflict resolution to prevent divisions
- Managing finances and resources to meet congregational needs
- Supporting pastors by handling logistics, freeing them for prayer and preaching
To be a baptist deacon, one needs integrity and a history of service. In the early church, deacons like Stephen and Philip helped with everyday needs. This allowed apostles to focus on spreading the Word (Acts 6:1-7).
Deacons keep the church’s mission focused on God’s teachings. They address both spiritual and physical needs. This strengthens the community for a lasting impact.
Qualifications for Becoming a Deacon
To become a baptist deacon, one must live a life of godly character. The Bible, in 1 Timothy 3:8–13, sets out spiritual standards for candidates. These requirements ensure leaders are faithful and honest.
“Deacons must be worthy of respect, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for money… They must keep hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.” (1 Timothy 3:8–9)
Spiritual Qualifications You Should Meet
Scripture outlines key traits for deacons:
- Worthy of respect: Living without scandal, showing honor in all interactions.
- Truthful speech: Staying away from gossip or lies—“not double-tongued” means being consistent.
- Self-control: Not controlled by too much alcohol, greed, or worldly desires.
- Guarded faith: Keeping the church’s teachings safe and maintaining a pure heart.
- Proven character: Leaders must be tested to show their maturity.
Being a baptist deacon also means handling family well, leading with wisdom. These standards are not just rules but a call to reflect Christ. Growing spiritually in these areas prepares one to serve faithfully.
Qualifications for Becoming a Deacon
To become a baptist deacon, you need more than just spiritual growth. Churches look for specific character traits that match biblical teachings. These traits help deacons lead with integrity and wisdom.
“A deacon must be… not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money…” – 1 Timothy 3:8-11
Personal Qualities and Character Traits
Important traits include:
- Integrity: Always being honest
- Self-control: Not overindulging in habits like drinking
- Humility: Serving without seeking personal fame
- Reliability: Always showing up for family and church duties
- Empathy: Listening with patience to others’ needs
Churches check these traits by observing how people act. For instance:
| Biblical Qualifications | Practical Requirements |
|---|---|
| Not greedy for money | Regularly tithing and being open with finances |
| Good reputation in community | Attending church for at least 12 months |
| Managing household well | Having a stable family with no ongoing conflicts |
These qualities should be evident before you’re nominated. Churches check them through feedback from members and leadership reviews. You must show you’ve lived these qualities for a long time before applying.
Qualifications for Becoming a Deacon
Deacons don’t always need formal theological degrees. But, they must understand key biblical teachings. Churches use deacon training programs to teach these lessons. These programs cover doctrine, church rules, and how to minister.
They help candidates meet scriptural standards. For example, they must hold “the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience” (1 Timothy 3:9).
Educational Resources for Spiritual Preparedness
Here are some ways to become a deacon:
- Church-led workshops focusing on Baptist theology and ethics.
- Denominational courses covering church polity and leadership principles.
- Study guides on 1 Timothy 3 and Acts 6, which outline biblical qualifications.
- Online modules on conflict resolution and congregational care.
Many churches provide training manuals or mentorship. Candidates should also check their church’s bylaws. Spiritual maturity is key, not just credentials. Knowledge comes from study and guidance.
The Ordination Process
Every journey to becoming a deacon starts with the deacon selection process. This journey is rooted in faith and community. Baptist churches have their own steps to guide individuals toward being ordained as a deacon. Each church may have slightly different practices.
- Nomination: Candidates are often nominated by church committees, congregational votes, or pastoral recommendations. This initial step highlights community trust in the individual’s character.
- Examination: Candidates undergo interviews and theological assessments by an Examining Council. They discuss their faith, call to service, and understanding of church doctrine.
- Approval: Church leadership and congregations vote to approve candidates. This democratic step ensures alignment with the church’s vision.
- Ordination Service: A formal ceremony includes prayers, the laying on of hands, and a charge to uphold deacon duties. A Certificate of Ordination symbolizes this sacred commitment.
- Post-Ordination: New deacons often enter a probationary period, mentored by experienced leaders to ensure smooth transition into their role.
Churches see this process as a divine affirmation of God’s calling. Each step, from nomination to the ordination service, shows the church’s commitment. The result? A deacon ready to lead with integrity and faith.
The Ordination Process
Endorsements from church leaders are key in the deacon selection process. Pastors and deacons check if candidates fit the church’s mission. A big question is, “
Is your pastor enthusiastic about you serving?
- Demonstrated faithfulness in current ministries
- A servant’s heart shown through volunteer work
- Alignment with the church’s doctrinal statements and values
Steps to become a deacon include getting formal endorsements through:
- A written recommendation from the senior pastor
- Approval from the deacon board via majority vote
- Reference checks with previous ministry leaders
Candidates in Track II or III must also provide experiential documentation as part of their application.
The ordination council checks candidates through interviews. They cover theology, ethics, and ministry experience. Success requires “unity among leadership” as stated in Baptist ordination manuals. Those denied can reapply after 12 months to fix any issues.
Final approvals lead to a public ordination service. The church then affirms the candidate’s readiness. This team effort makes sure only the right people serve in this important role.
Preparing for the Role
Developing spiritual disciplines is key to how to become a baptist deacon. A strong personal relationship with God is essential. The manual emphasizes that worship is the foundation: “Worship is the key to being an effective deacon.”
“How much time alone do you spend with God? Is your private time alone with the Lord daily a top priority?”
These questions show the importance of putting God first. Daily prayer, Scripture meditation, and corporate worship are must-haves. Becoming a baptist deacon is not just about actions; it’s about inner change. Here’s how to start:
- Prayer and Scripture Study: Spend 15–30 minutes each day reading the Bible and praying. Use devotional guides or apps to stay on track.
- Corporate Worship: Go to weekly services and small groups. This helps you connect with the church’s mission and build friendships.
- Fasting and Sacrifice: Fast sometimes to grow closer to God and make clearer decisions in ministry.
- Accountability: Work with another believer to check on your spiritual growth and be open about challenges.
| Key Commitments | Description |
|---|---|
| Personal Godliness | Live openly, avoiding greed or dishonesty (1 Tim. 3:8). |
| Service Mindset | Focus on helping others, not managing (Acts 6:1-6). |
| Prayer Focus | Pray regularly for the church, its leaders, and its needs. |
These habits are not just for now but for a lifetime. They help you qualify as a baptist deacon by aligning your heart with God’s will. This ensures your service comes from true faith.
Preparing for the Role
Volunteering is key to becoming a deacon. Churches want candidates who are already active in service. Think about what your church needs help with.
Maybe you could organize food drives, lead outreach programs, or help with maintenance. These actions show you’re committed to service. They also match the qualities mentioned in 1 Timothy 3:8–12, like maturity and integrity.
- Benevolence ministries: Help distribute resources to those in need.
- Facility support: Maintain church spaces for events and worship.
- Visitation: Offer care to sick or homebound members.
- Administrative tasks: Assist with communications or event planning.
“Have you been serving people in helpful ways? Have you opened your home to others?”
Make sure volunteering doesn’t interfere with family and work. Choose roles that fit your schedule. Keep a journal of your service. Many churches check these records when evaluating candidates.
Volunteering helps you build relationships and understand church operations. It prepares you to support elders and lead when needed.
Navigating Church Policies
Church policies are important for deacons to understand. Baptist churches have different deacon selection process and baptist deacon requirements. Start by looking at your church’s constitution, bylaws, and deacon handbooks. These documents explain what is expected, like term lengths and service duties.
Look for details on term limits, rotation schedules, and age rules. Some churches ask for written vows, while others prefer informal commitments. There are also different views on what it means to “manage a household” (1 Timothy 3:4–5). Talk to leaders about any unwritten rules, like how to handle conflicts or plan outreach.
Here’s how to get clear on what’s expected:
- Review official documents for baptist deacon requirements.
- Ask the pastor or board about unspoken expectations.
- Compare policies with biblical standards like Acts 6:3 and 1 Timothy 3:8–13.
Church policies help maintain harmony. By following them and staying true to core service principles, deacons can serve well. This balance between local rules and biblical teachings strengthens ministry partnerships.
Navigating Church Policies
Understanding church rules is key for those interested in how to become a baptist deacon. Each church has its own deacon selection process. This includes interviews, background checks, and approval from leaders. These steps make sure candidates meet biblical standards, like those in 1 Timothy 3:8-10.
Church guidelines often require candidates to first discuss their interest with pastors or deacons before moving forward.
Importance of Following Church Protocol
Skipping these steps can cause problems or seem too eager. Leaders check candidates’ character at each stage. For instance, 1 Timothy 3:10 says deacons must be tested first.
- Review your church’s bylaws to learn qualifications and steps.
- Share your interest with pastors or current deacons to discuss readiness.
- Wait patiently as leadership evaluates your spiritual maturity and timing.
If the church says you’re not ready yet, see it as a chance to grow. Trusting the process shows respect for God’s timing and the church’s wisdom.
Mentorship and Guidance
Successful deacons often say their growth came from seasoned leaders. Mentorship helps bridge the gap between theory and practice. It offers insights from real-life ministry challenges. Here’s how to seek and build these vital relationships.
- Observe deacons active in church leadership. Look for those who embody the steps to becoming a deacon with integrity.
- Ask pastors or elders for recommendations. Many churches have informal deacon training program networks.
- Initiate conversations. A simple, “I value your experience—would you be open to occasional advice?” opens doors.
Historical examples like Barnabas mentoring Paul show how relational guidance accelerates growth. Modern churches can model this by pairing newcomers with veteran leaders. When formal programs exist, they often include mentorship as part of their curriculum. If none exist, consider proposing one—many churches welcome suggestions for ministry improvements.
Regular meetings should focus on practical topics: handling conflict, managing time, or interpreting scripture for ministry decisions. Trust is key—confidentiality and mutual respect build lasting partnerships. Mentorship isn’t just for new deacons; even seasoned leaders benefit from accountability.
Mentorship and Guidance
“A deacon’s strength grows when their heart aligns with the church’s vision and leaders.”
Tobecome a church deacon, building trust with pastors and leaders is essential. Start by praying weekly for your pastor and staff. Also, ask them how you can help with tasks like event setup or outreach.
Always speak kindly about leadership in public and private conversations. This shows your commitment and respect.
Here’s how to strengthen these relationships practically:
- Attend leadership meetings as a guest to understand their challenges.
- Volunteer for projects that match the church’s current goals.
- Share ideas respectfully during designated times, not during crises.
- Ask senior deacons for feedback on your service and attitudes.
Disagreements should be addressed privately first. When discussing differences, follow biblical principles like humility and patience. Thehow to become a baptist deaconjourney requires proving reliability over time. The 180-day mentoring phase tests your ability to support leaders consistently.
Church leaders look for candidates who reflect integrity in both public and private actions. Stay focused on serving without seeking praise. This trust-building phase ensures you’re ready to uphold the church’s mission as a deacon.
Engaging with the Congregation
Building trust is key for deacon responsibilities. Good deacons connect by showing real care. Start by going to services, events, and small groups often. Learn names and listen to stories to build familiarity.
Trust grows when actions match words. This means helping out or keeping promises. It shows you’re reliable.
- Be Present: Attend church functions and community gatherings.
- Listen Actively: Offer empathy without judgment when people share struggles.
- Respect Boundaries: Keep conversations confidential to earn trust.
Deacons work at three main “tables”. They support communion, help the poor, and assist pastors. They switch roles every four months. This way, they get to know the church’s needs well.
Those becoming a church deacon should focus on relationships, not titles. Building trust takes time. Small acts, like visiting the sick, show you care. When people feel valued, the church grows stronger together.
Engaging with the Congregation
Effective communication is key for deacon responsibilities. Those ordained as a deacon must build trust through clear, compassionate dialogue. Here’s how to master these skills:
Effective Communication Skills for Deacons
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt.”—Colossians 4:6
Key practices include:
- Active Listening: Pause to understand concerns before responding.
- Confidentiality: Share only what is necessary with church leadership.
- Tactful Delivery: Address conflicts or financial needs with kindness and truth.
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Handling gossip | Redirect conversations to biblical principles |
| Mediating disputes | Use “I” statements to avoid accusatory tones |
| Financial discussions | Clarify church policies calmly and clearly |
Training programs like the Three Tables model offer tools for improving these skills. Resources at www.thethreetables.com include workbooks on conflict resolution and prayer strategies. Deacons must model Christ-like communication to strengthen congregational unity and uphold the integrity of their role.
Continuing Education and Training
Getting certified as a Baptist deacon is just the start. Baptist churches offer deacon training programs to deepen understanding of service and leadership. The COGBF Deacon’s Manual and special courses are key to ongoing growth.
- ABS501 Advanced Biblical Studies: Explores Scripture’s core teachings to strengthen theological foundations.
- DOC201: Details COGBF’s doctrinal practices and governance structures.
- CAD101/CAD201: Teaches administrative skills for managing church operations.
- CTM101: Covers technology tools for modern ministry outreach.
“A deacon’s effectiveness grows when paired with humility and a hunger to learn,” states the COGBF Leadership Handbook. This mindset drives many deacons to pursue certification in programs like GIS101 or LDR101.
- Join online forums or local study groups to discuss topics like conflict resolution or church history (HIS101).
- Use tools like QuickBooks (taught in CFI101) to master financial stewardship.
- Follow a yearly reading plan featuring books on pastoral care and Baptist heritage.
Look for resources that match Baptist doctrine and are practical. When planning budgets, include courses like DEC101 or Lesson Nine on ethical decision-making. Keeping learning active ensures deacons serve with wisdom and grace.
Continuing Education and Training
Deacons looking to grow can find workshops and conferences that enhance leadership skills. Programs like East Texas Baptist University’s Certificate of Ministry offer formal deacon training programs. These help those ordained as a deacon learn more about their ministry. Such events focus on practical skills and networking.
Workshops and Conferences to Consider
Effective training includes retreats, denominational gatherings, and online sessions. Many programs offer flexible formats, like weekend seminars or 12-week courses.
| Course | Description | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEC101 | Foundations of Deaconship | Marshall, TX | $175 |
| CAD101 | Church Admin Basics | Maryland | $175 |
| LDR101 | Leadership Principles | North Carolina | $125 |
| GIS101 | Church Governance | Various | $175 |
East Texas Baptist University’s program has 18 credit hours, taught by leaders like Rev. Kenneth Thomas. Courses like DEC101 and CAD101 meet ministry needs. Attendees gain insights to share with their congregations.
- Choose events that match your church’s priorities.
- Ask your church about funding or scholarships.
- Discuss attendance plans with family to balance commitments.
Many programs offer weekend retreats formats, making them accessible. Online options let deacons study from home. After the event, apply what you learned to your church duties. Share your experiences with fellow deacons.
Serving Beyond the Church Walls
Deacon responsibilities go beyond just attending church services. Baptist deacons are called to serve like Christ in their communities. This service is based on the Greek idea of diakonia—active love in action. It naturally leads to community outreach.
“Deacons are at the margins, advocating for justice and reminding the church of its mission to align the world with God’s vision.”
Effective community outreach begins with finding out what the community needs. Here are some ideas:
- Organizing food drives for food deserts
- Partnering with schools to provide after-school programs
- Advocating for affordable housing through local nonprofits
To become a baptist deacon, you must understand the value of these efforts. Deacons can organize teams based on spiritual gifts. For example, a finance-savvy deacon can manage donations, while a compassionate member can lead counseling programs. This teamwork makes outreach effective and lasting.
Rev. Dr. Margaret Ann Crain says deacons serve where society needs help. Places like hospitals, shelters, and community centers are perfect for ministry. By tackling big issues like hunger or loneliness, deacons show the church’s dedication to caring for all.
Every outreach effort should reflect the church’s mission. Service builds trust, which can lead to sharing the gospel. Deacons should empower others, not do everything themselves. This way, community service becomes a bridge between faith and action.
Serving Beyond the Church Walls
Deacons go beyond the church with their deacon responsibilities. They show Christ’s love to those near and far. Baptist deacons focus on outreach, social justice, and global work. This meets baptist deacon requirements for service.
Their efforts build community bonds and share the Gospel through action.
Key Ways Deacons Engage in Mission Work
- Coordinate mission trips and manage logistics for participants
- Oversee mission funds to ensure resources reach underserved communities
- Collaborate with local organizations to address poverty, homelessness, and health disparities
- Lead workshops to educate congregations about mission opportunities and global needs
| Mission Activity | Deacon’s Role |
|---|---|
| Local outreach | Organize food drives and visitation programs for the elderly and sick |
| Global missions | Facilitate financial support and prayer networks for international partners |
| Social justice | Advocate for marginalized groups and plan community advocacy campaigns |
Aligning Missions with Baptist Principles
Deacons check if missions match Baptist values. They look for projects that show Christ’s love for the poor. They get training and review theology to follow baptist deacon requirements.
Mission work makes the church stronger and grows deacons spiritually. By serving, they show faith in action. This inspires others to help God’s work outside the church.
Overcoming Challenges as a Deacon
Being a deacon means dealing with conflicts, criticism, and personal struggles. Yet, it’s a journey toward spiritual growth. It’s about staying true to oneself and one’s faith.
- Handling disagreements between members without taking sides
- Avoiding pride while serving in a visible leadership role
- Managing expectations when facing unmet needs in the congregation
“A servant’s strength comes from dependence on God, not human strength,” Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.”
Here are some ways to tackle these challenges:
- Seeking mentorship to address discouragement or confusion
- Practicing open communication with pastors to clarify expectations
- Setting boundaries to avoid burnout while fulfilling deacon duties
Deacons should not harm unity by spreading rumors or undermining leaders. Instead, they should:
- Address issues privately before involving others
- Praying for those who criticize or oppose ministry efforts
- Refusing to gossip about church finances or decisions
When conflicts arise over tithing or vision, biblical wisdom is key. Being humble and honest helps maintain relationships and achieve service goals. Staying consistent in integrity builds trust, which is vital for effective ministry.
Overcoming Challenges as a Deacon
Deacons are spiritual leaders, but balancing their duties can be tough. They must find harmony between family, work, health, and church roles. To avoid burnout, they need to manage their time and relationships well.
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:2
Strategies for Maintaining Balance
Here are some key strategies:
- Set clear boundaries between ministry and personal life
- Use calendars for scheduling church tasks and family time
- Delegate non-essential duties to volunteers or other leaders
- Regularly assess commitments to avoid overload
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Family neglect | Schedule weekly family devotionals |
| Time shortages | Use time-blocking techniques |
| Ministry burnout | Take regular sabbath days off |
Being a baptist deacon is more than just getting ordained. It’s about ongoing self-care. Deacons need to show balance to inspire others. They should pray and study the Bible regularly (1 Timothy 4:15) to stay strong during busy times.
The Impact of Deacons on Church Growth
Effective deacons help the church grow by getting everyone involved. They turn personal service into a team effort. In Acts 6, deacons helped the apostles focus on prayer and preaching.
As deacon responsibilities grow, they must teach others to serve too.
“When deacons and pastors prioritize the ministry, there will be growth.”
- Identify talents: Encourage members to share their skills through surveys or talks.
- Create starter roles: Give simple tasks like greeting visitors or organizing supplies to build confidence.
- Address barriers: Train deacons to listen to fears and connect people with supportive mentors.
A good deacon selection process picks leaders who listen and empower others. Small-group rotations help deacons mentor newcomers, building leadership.
Clear communication about needs, like outreach events or childcare, shows how everyone’s time counts. Recognition boards or service shout-outs celebrate contributions, boosting a culture of participation.
Biblical principles from 1 Timothy 3 guide this work. Deacons with integrity build trust, making the church a place where everyone feels called to serve. When members actively engage, the church grows in love and mission.
The Impact of Deacons on Church Growth
Deacons play a key role in a church’s growth. In Acts 6, they helped solve problems with caring for widows. This allowed apostles to focus on preaching. This shows how deacons’ work helps the church grow spiritually.
Choosing the right deacons is important. They need to balance service and wisdom. This ensures the church can grow in a healthy way.
Supporting Ministry Expansion Efforts
Deacons help the church grow by welcoming new members. They manage facilities and organize outreach programs. Their work helps the church stay focused on its mission.
They also handle conflicts, making sure the church can grow. By doing this, deacons let pastors focus on teaching. This helps the church grow both in numbers and spiritually.
The selection process for deacons is critical. It ensures they are spiritually mature and can keep the church united. Acts 6:7 shows the impact of deacons: the church grew, and many priests joined.
Today, deacons keep the church running smoothly while prioritizing God’s work. They help the church adapt to its growing needs. Serving as a deacon means helping the church thrive as it grows.
FAQ
What are the primary responsibilities of a Baptist deacon?
What qualifications do I need to become a deacon?
Is formal education required to become a deacon?
How do I start the deacon selection process in my church?
Can I become a deacon if I have experienced personal struggles?
What types of mentorship should I seek as a potentially deacon?
How can I build trust within the congregation as a deacon?
What should I do if I’m not ready for deacon service after the selection process?
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- https://www.gbhem.org/ministry/clergy-leaders/deacons-diaconal-ministers/becoming-a-deacon/ – Becoming a Deacon – General Board of Higher Education and Ministry
- https://sbtexas.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Deacon-On-Purpose_WEB.pdf – PDF
- https://gracebaptistmarshfield.org/pastors-blog/2022/8/17/6-important-elements-for-mentoring – 6 Important Elements for Mentoring — Grace Baptist Church
- https://sermons.logos.com/sermons/1096746-mentoring-new-leaders – Mentoring New Leaders
- https://churchanswers.com/blog/the-right-way-for-older-deacons-to-mentor-younger-deacons/ – The Right Way for Older Deacons to Mentor Younger Deacons | Church Answers
- https://www.xpastor.org/strategy/gov/deacon-handbook-of-henderson-hills-baptist-church-of-edmond-oklahoma/ – Deacon Handbook
- https://research.lifeway.com/2024/10/07/empowering-deacons-5-crucial-conversations/ – Empowering Deacons: 5 Crucial Conversations – Lifeway Research
- https://www.garbc.org/commentary/10-crucial-commitments-of-effective-deacons/ – 10 Crucial Commitments of Effective Deacons | GARBC | General Association of Regular Baptist Churches
- https://arkansasbaptist.org/post/a-new-old-way-of-doing-deacon-ministry/ – A new old way of doing deacon ministry – Arkansas Baptist News
- https://www.chesterroadbaptist.org.uk/Articles/633557/Becoming_a_Deacon.aspx – Becoming a Deacon
- https://www.cti.cogbf.org/deacons-ministry-program/ – Deacon’s Ministry Program –
- https://www.etbu.edu/academics/academic-schools/school-christian-studies-humanities/certificate-ministry – Certificate in Ministry | East Texas Baptist University
- http://www.wbswashingtonbaptistseminary.org/school-of-certification/summary-of-classes-offered.html – Washington Baptist Theological Seminary – Summary of Classes Offered
- https://www.stjohnsaustin.org/our-life-together-blog/what-it-means-to-be-a-deacon/ – Saint John’s, Austin
- https://www.gbalife.org/uploads/4/7/5/1/47516483/developing_deacon-led_ministry_teams–deacons_manual.pdf – PDF
- https://www.xpastor.org/strategy/gov/deacon-handbook-of-washington-heights-baptist-church-of-ogden-utah/ – Deacon Handbook
- https://www.faithonview.com/how-do-you-become-a-deacon/ – Becoming a Deacon: Requirements and Steps
- https://jobs.togethersc.org/career/deaconess – What does a Deaconess do? Career Overview, Roles, Jobs | Together SC
- https://joemckeever.com/wp/reforming-the-deacons-11-ten-no-nos-for-deacons/ – Reforming the Deacons (11): “Ten No-No’s for Deacons”
- https://www.nobts.edu/baptist-center-theology/papers-files/Lemke_How_Deacons_Can_Help.pdf – Microsoft Word – How%20Deacons%20Can%20Help%20Their%20Pastors[1].doc
- https://karlvaters.com/difficult-deacon-board/ – How To Deal With A Difficult Deacon Board – KarlVaters.com
- http://www.tarriverbaptist.org/uploads/6/8/8/3/6883017/deacon_i_want_to_be_trba_overview_handbook.pdf – PDF
- https://rayuviews.wordpress.com/my-experience-as-a-deacon-a-reflection/ – My Experience as a Deacon: a Reflection
- https://pastors.ai/sermon/the-essential-role-of-deacons-in-church-growth/103/ (Chris McCombs) references a Deacon Ministry Handbook commissioned by the Southern Baptist Convention, which provides an in-depth analysis of the Greek language and the qualifications for deacons. The sermon uses this reference to support its interpretation of the qualifications for deacons and to challenge traditional views on divorce and remarriage in relation to deacon qualifications. – The Essential Role of Deacons in Church Growth
- https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/the-ministry-of-deacons/ – The ministry of deacons | Baptist Press
- https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/sbc-life-articles/a-new-look-at-the-ministry-of-deacons/ – A New Look at the Ministry of Deacons | Baptist Press
- https://oefc.org/sermons/deacons-servants-that-strengthen-the-local-church/ – Deacons: Servants that Strengthen the Local Church –