Deacon; Deaconess
Peopleâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
The Greek term diakonos and its cognates appear frequently in the New Testament, referring to service, ministration, or the role of a servant, underling, or helper. Historical analysis examines whether these terms designate a formal ecclesiastical office, specifically the institution of the diaconate.
What is the meaning of Deacon; Deaconess in the Bible?
The Greek term diakonos and its cognates appear frequently in the New Testament, referring to service, ministration, or the role of a servant, underling, or helper. Historical analysis examines whether these terms designate a formal ecclesiastical office, specifically the institution of the diaconate.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the role of deacons and deaconesses clarifies the organizational structure of the early church and the specific functions assigned to lay leaders in the New Testament narrative.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Deacon; Deaconess in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Deacon; Deaconess clarify?
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Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.