1 Timothy 3:8-13 - Today as we ordain two men to the office of deacon in the church we turn to 1 Timothy 3:8-13 for instruction. Pastors and deacons are to work side by side in leading and serving the church. Deacons are to be an extension of the heart and the hand of the pastor. It is not incidental therefore that the character requirements to serve as a pastor in the church and to serve as a deacon in the church are virtually identical.