Minister of Mercy: The New Testament Deacon

Top Highlights

“Yet church shepherds today desperately need the deacons to relieve them from the many practical care needs essential to shepherding a flock so that the shepherds can attend more fully to teaching, guarding, and leading the whole flock.” (Page 12)

“Good leaders always distinguish themselves by their ability to skillfully confront troublesome issues and to be decisive. In fact, confronting problems is a major part of leadership responsibility. Fearful leaders who refuse to confront problems have demoralized many churches and organizations. Running away from problems creates worse problems.” (Page 18)

“The major distinguishing characteristic of the New Testament church is the centrality of proclaiming and teaching the Word of God.” (Pages 23–24)

“The shepherds of God’s precious flock must understand that prayer is the shepherds’ work, and that it requires time and energy. Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission, once cautioned, ‘Do not be so busy with the work of Christ (or anything else) that you have no strength left for praying. True prayer requires strength.’” (Page 21)

“As long as the deacons enable the shepherds of the church to carry out their primary duties, and as long as the deacons minister to the congregation’s welfare needs, they are doing their job.” (Page 43)