This is the final installment in our series about the Deacon Ministry of FBC Midlothian.

In April 2025, some changes were made to the church’s bylaws. In explaining the qualifications and responsibilities of Deacons, the following explanation was approved:

Deacons shall meet the qualifications as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and Acts 6:3 of the New Testament, which include being of good moral character, full of the Holy Spirit, and demonstrating a strong commitment to their faith. Deacon candidates must be an active member of this Church for at least two years at the time of consideration before being eligible for election. Deacons previously ordained at another church must be active members of this Church in good standing for a minimum of two years before being nominated to serve at this Church.

Deacons are duty bound to assist the ministerial staff and Church Council in the ministry to Church members. Deacons may also be requested to serve on various church committees, Deacon committees or take on specific responsibilities as designated by either the Deacon officers or Church leadership.

According to our bylaws, at least once each year, our Deacon Officers or a group of designated Deacons will request nominations from the church body for prospective Deacons (Deacon candidates). After a time of evaluation and prayer, the Deacon Body will recommend candidates who have agreed to serve and are prepared to do so. The evaluation includes areas of spiritual maturity, doctrinal integrity, demonstration of a servant’s heart, and faithful character. A simple majority vote will elect these prospective Deacons during a Church conference, and those who have not yet been ordained will participate in a special ordination service following their election.

The number of Deacons and the term of service necessary to meet the Church’s needs will be determined by the Deacon Body and will be adjusted as needed.

As the date for nominating deacon candidates approaches, please do the following:

1. Review the list of qualifications of Deacons listed in Acts 6:3 and 1 Timothy 3:8-13.
2. Pray, asking God to lead you as you consider church members that fit the criteria of those verses.
3. If the Lord lays a name on your heart, submit it at the appropriate time.

As you read, pray, and contemplate, please remember the following two statements:

Liking a person and sensing the Lord’s leading are not one and the same.

Not everyone who fits the New Testament qualifications of a Deacon needs to hold the office of Deacon, but everyone who holds the office of Deacon needs to meet the New Testament qualifications.

Thank you for taking the time to read these articles and become informed about the Deacon ministry and the Deacon selection process at FBC Midlothian. Please pray that those who agree to hold the office will be held and led by our Lord.