So as we consider the work of the deacons, we must realize that the diaconate is called to many tasks – tasks that take into consideration many things. And when we think about some of the works of the diaconate – whether it is a work of mercy, or work of hospitality, or a work of outreach, or any work that comes to the office of the deacon – what is the unifying factor? It usually costs money, doesn't it? The work of the diaconate is a work that has to take into consideration the dollars and cents of the kingdom of God. If the session has an idea for outreach, or if somebody else in the congregation has an idea for outreach, or if we have something that we want to do as a congregation, the question, How much does it cost? is a real question in the ministry of the church. The kingdom of God is financed. The kingdom of God does cost money in the life of the church. These works need to be funded. …

So those that desire to serve in this office of the deacon ideally would have a functional ability in the area of finance, as well as a kingdom vision that not only includes the ministry of the local church, but (like we see with the apostle Paul) has a global vision for the church in the way that the church is to be cared for. It might sound a little bold for you to hear someone say, I think that the deacon should not only be able to do well with finances, but also the deacon should have a vision for how the kingdom of God will expand. It is kind of putting the deacon to that level of super apostle to expect that much from the diaconate! But that is not true. Remember that one of our starting premises is that the diaconate is no small office. The diaconate is to be elevated, and the diaconate is to be understood as an office with servant leadership. We believe that where the deacon serves, the deacon leads. And this is true in helping to drive kingdom vision in the way that the kingdom of God is funded.¹

Nathan Eshelman