If we are to build the church in a way that glorifies Jesus, we need to build His way. This first session in the deacons training series takes an introspective look at our unique callings in order to build effectively within the broader body. What are the pillars in the church?

Are deacons servants and slaves? ‘Deacon’ is a word that derives from the Greek word for ‘servant’. But is that all a deacon is? During this session, Mike unpacks the role and responsibilities of a deacon and the heart posture that these responsibilities should flow out from.

What is the job description of a deacon? “Is there anything I would be unwilling to do?” During this session, we take a look at the expectations of deacons within a leadership team, and the tension between using people where they are gifted versus using people where they are needed.

Deacons need to be faithful, available, submissive and teachable, but what does this mean practically? During this session, we examine these qualities further and discuss the importance of walking in the same direction as a team.

Are we actively looking to find and train people to be leaders? Is the church a democracy? During this fifth session, we unpack who should be recognised to serve as a deacon and the importance of governing the church in God’s way.

The Biblical qualifications for deacons relate to character not gifting. God is more concerned with our character than our ability. In this session, we encourage deacons to evaluate if they feel they set a good example for the saints, and how to foster a culture of openness and accountability within this.

Is our view about the role of men and women shaped by my culture or by Scripture? During this session, we unpack the role that women play in a position of authority, what the Bible says about the office of a deacon and whether women can fulfil this role.

We should always count the cost before embarking on a project so as to ensure we can complete the task at hand. During this session, we unpack the ‘cost’ of being a deacon and how to support one another through challenging times.

Do we live with one heart, one mind and one purpose? Paul urges us to value and guard real unity in the church, however, this can only happen where we are willing to truly die to self. In this session, we look at the crucial part that unity plays within a team, and the importance of laying down our plans and ambitions for the greater body.

Do we submit willingly to those in authority over us? During this session, we take a look at the difference between authority and submission and how to exercise our authority in accordance with God’s ways