Biblical Leadership: Pastors and Deacons in Service

Summary

On this Victoria Day weekend, we gathered to reflect on the unique structure and leadership of the Baptist church, focusing on the two biblical offices of pastor and deacon. Drawing from both Scripture and church history, we explored how these roles are not arbitrary but are rooted in the New Testament and designed for the health and flourishing of the local church. The office of pastor is described through three interchangeable terms—elder, bishop (overseer), and shepherd—each highlighting a different aspect of pastoral responsibility: spiritual maturity, administrative oversight, and caring leadership. Pastors are called to lead, feed, and guard the flock, modeling their ministry after Christ, the Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for the sheep. This calling is not about perfection or superhuman ability, but about spiritual maturity, proven character, and a deep commitment to pastoral care.

We also examined the biblical qualifications for pastors, as outlined by Paul in his letters to Timothy and Titus. These qualifications emphasize moral integrity, self-control, hospitality, and the ability to teach, as well as a well-ordered personal and family life. Importantly, the right to pastor is earned through genuine investment in the lives of the congregation, not simply by holding a title or position. Pastoral care is at the heart of this calling, requiring time, presence, and a willingness to share in the joys and burdens of the church community.

Turning to the office of deacon, we saw that the word itself means "servant" or "minister," and that deacons were first appointed in the early church to meet practical needs and free the apostles for prayer and teaching. The qualifications for deacons are similar to those for pastors, emphasizing respectability, sincerity, and faithfulness. Both offices are accountable to God for their leadership and are called to serve with humility, not lording authority over others but being examples to the flock.

We were also cautioned against the abuse of authority, which can manifest in cultures of fear, secrecy, and control. True spiritual leadership, as modeled by Jesus, is marked by servanthood, humility, and a willingness to listen and care for others. The congregation is encouraged to support and pray for its leaders, recognizing the weight of their responsibility and the importance of healthy, accountable leadership for the church’s witness and well-being.

Key Takeaways

- The biblical office of pastor is multifaceted, encompassing the roles of elder (spiritual maturity), bishop (administrative oversight), and shepherd (caring leadership). Each aspect is essential, and together they form a holistic vision of pastoral ministry that is rooted in both character and competence, not just in public speaking or charisma. This reminds us that leadership in the church is about serving others, not about status or personal ambition. [04:31]

- Pastoral care is not a secondary task but the very heart of what it means to lead God’s people. Genuine shepherding requires presence, listening, and a willingness to enter into the real lives and struggles of the congregation. The right to lead is earned through relationship and sacrificial investment, not simply by holding a title or office. [18:38]

- The office of deacon is a vital, servant-hearted ministry that ensures the practical needs of the church are met, allowing pastors to focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word. Deacons model Christlike service, and their qualifications mirror those of pastors, emphasizing integrity, faithfulness, and a clear conscience. This highlights that all church leadership is fundamentally about serving others for the sake of the gospel. [26:17]

- Both pastors and deacons are ultimately accountable to God for how they exercise their authority. Leadership in the church is not about power or control, but about being examples to the flock, leading with humility, and serving willingly. The congregation is called to support, pray for, and encourage its leaders, recognizing the spiritual weight they carry and the importance of their role in the community. [28:14]

- Abuse of authority is a real and present danger in any organization, including the church. Cultures of fear, secrecy, and control are red flags that betray the servant-hearted leadership Jesus modeled. True spiritual leaders are marked by humility, transparency, and a commitment to the well-being of others, always seeking to build up rather than tear down, and to serve rather than be served. [31:32]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:36] - Depression & Anxiety Support Group
[01:13] - Too Many Cooks: Church Leadership Structure
[01:55] - Introduction to Baptist Distinctives
[02:33] - The Two Biblical Offices: Pastor and Deacon
[03:14] - Historical Context: Reformation and Church Structure
[04:31] - The Office of Pastor: Elder, Bishop, Shepherd
[07:10] - Administrative Responsibilities of Pastors
[08:29] - The Shepherding Role of Pastors
[11:07] - Multiple Pastors and Team Ministry
[14:18] - Realities and Expectations of Pastoral Ministry
[15:32] - Biblical Qualifications for Pastors
[18:38] - The Heart of Pastoral Care
[21:10] - Women in Pastoral Ministry
[23:07] - The Office of Deacon: Origins and Role
[26:17] - Qualifications and Responsibilities of Deacons
[28:14] - Accountability and Support for Church Leaders
[31:32] - Warning Signs of Abusive Leadership
[34:06] - Jesus’ Model of Servant Leadership
[34:46] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Offices of Pastor and Deacon

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### Bible Reading

1. 1 Timothy 3:1-13
(Qualifications for overseers/pastors and deacons)

2. Acts 6:1-7
(The appointment of the first deacons to serve practical needs)

3. 1 Peter 5:1-4
(Instructions to elders/pastors on shepherding the flock with humility)

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### Observation Questions

1. According to 1 Timothy 3:1-13, what are some of the specific character qualities and abilities required for someone to serve as a pastor or deacon?
*(see [15:32] and [26:17])*

2. In Acts 6:1-7, what practical problem led to the appointment of deacons, and what was the result for the church after they were chosen?
*(see [24:26])*

3. In 1 Peter 5:1-4, what attitude does Peter say church leaders should have as they care for the flock?
*(see [28:14])*

4. The sermon described three different words used for the office of pastor: elder, bishop (overseer), and shepherd. What does each term emphasize about the role?
*(see [04:31])*

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Paul and Peter put so much emphasis on the character and family life of church leaders, rather than just their skills or experience?
*(see [16:43] and [28:14])*

2. The sermon said that the right to pastor is “earned through relationship and sacrificial investment, not simply by holding a title or office.” What does this mean for how we view leadership in the church?
*(see [18:38])*

3. In Acts 6, the apostles delegated practical ministry to deacons so they could focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word. What does this division of roles teach us about the priorities and teamwork needed in a healthy church?
*(see [25:39])*

4. The sermon warned about the abuse of authority in church leadership. What are some of the “red flags” mentioned, and why are they so dangerous for a church community?
*(see [31:32])*

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### Application Questions

1. The qualifications for pastors and deacons include being “above reproach,” “self-controlled,” and “hospitable.” Which of these qualities do you find most challenging in your own life, and what is one step you could take to grow in that area this week?
*(see [16:43])*

2. The sermon emphasized that pastoral care is not just about preaching, but about being present and investing in people’s lives. When was the last time you felt truly cared for by a church leader or another believer? How did that impact you?
*(see [18:38])*

3. Deacons were appointed to meet practical needs in the church. Are there practical needs in our church or community that you notice? What is one way you could help meet a need, either personally or as a group?
*(see [26:17])*

4. The sermon cautioned against cultures of fear, secrecy, and control in church leadership. Have you ever experienced or witnessed unhealthy leadership in a church or other organization? How did it affect your trust and participation?
*(see [31:32])*

5. Both pastors and deacons are called to serve with humility and be examples to the flock. Who is someone in your life who models servant leadership well? What is one thing you can learn from their example?
*(see [28:14])*

6. The congregation is encouraged to support and pray for its leaders. How often do you pray for your church leaders? What is one specific way you can encourage or support a pastor, deacon, or board member this month?
*(see [28:55])*

7. The sermon said, “Leadership in the church is about serving others, not about status or personal ambition.” In what ways can you practice servant-hearted leadership in your family, workplace, or church this week?
*(see [04:31] and [34:06])*

---

Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Pray for the pastors, deacons, and leaders of your church, asking God to give them wisdom, humility, and strength. Pray also for your group, that each person would grow in Christlike character and a heart to serve others.

Devotional

Day 1: The Shepherding Role of Pastors

Pastors are called to be shepherds who lead, feed, and guard the flock, caring for each member with watchfulness and self-sacrifice under the lordship of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. This role requires a delicate balance of kindness, patience, and appropriate authority, always modeled after Christ, who laid down His life for the sheep. Pastors are entrusted with the spiritual well-being of the congregation, ensuring that no one is left behind or disregarded, and are to be vigilant against threats to the flock, both from within and without. Their leadership is not about power, but about loving service and protection, reflecting the heart of Jesus in all they do. [09:51]

John 10:11 (ESV)
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."

Reflection: Who in your church community might be feeling overlooked or left behind, and how can you reach out to them this week with Christlike care and encouragement?


Day 2: Biblical Qualifications for Church Leaders

Church leaders, especially pastors and deacons, are called to a high standard of character, maturity, and proven ability, as outlined in Scripture. These qualifications go beyond skills or experience, focusing on moral integrity, self-control, hospitality, and the ability to manage one’s own household well. Leaders must be above reproach, respected by outsiders, and not driven by selfish ambition or greed. The emphasis is on living lives that are exemplary, both in private and public, so that their leadership is rooted in authenticity and trustworthiness, serving as models for the congregation. [16:43]

1 Timothy 3:1-7 (ESV)
"The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil."

Reflection: In what area of your character or daily life do you sense God calling you to greater integrity or maturity, and what is one step you can take this week to grow in that area?


Day 3: The Servant-Hearted Ministry of Deacons

Deacons are called to practical service within the church, assisting pastors by meeting the tangible needs of the congregation and ensuring that no one is neglected. Their ministry is rooted in humility, respect, sincerity, and faithfulness, as they serve as examples of Christlike love in action. The role of deacon is not about status but about being willing to serve wherever needed, often behind the scenes, so that the church can flourish and the gospel can advance. Their faithful service brings assurance in their faith and builds up the body of Christ. [26:52]

1 Timothy 3:8-13 (ESV)
"Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: What is one practical way you can serve someone in your church family this week, following the example of a deacon’s humble ministry?


Day 4: Healthy Leadership and Accountability in the Church

Church leaders are accountable to God for how they shepherd His people, and their leadership should be marked by willingness, eagerness to serve, and being examples to the flock rather than lording authority over others. The congregation is called to support and pray for their leaders, recognizing the weight of responsibility they carry. Healthy church leadership avoids abuse of power, fosters a culture of transparency and mutual respect, and seeks the well-being of all, reflecting the servant leadership of Christ. [28:14]

1 Peter 5:1-4 (ESV)
"So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory."

Reflection: How can you intentionally encourage and pray for your church leaders this week, so that their work is a joy and not a burden?


Day 5: Guarding Against Abuse of Authority

Abuse of authority in the church is a serious danger, often marked by fear, secrecy, confusion, and exclusion, but Jesus calls His followers to servant leadership that listens, serves, and puts others first. True spiritual leadership is never about self-promotion or control, but about humility, accountability, and caring for others as Christ would. The church must be vigilant against unhealthy patterns of leadership, always seeking to reflect the character of Jesus, who taught that the greatest among us must be the servant of all. [34:06]

Luke 6:40 (ESV)
"A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher."

Reflection: Are there any attitudes or practices in your own life or in your church community that need to be challenged or changed to better reflect Christ’s example of servant leadership? What step can you take today to promote a culture of humility and accountability?

Quotes