January 1, 2011, I was elected by my church body as a Pentecostal deacon for a three year term. As of this writing, I've been in the position for seven months.
I can't really point you to an official non-Scriptural explanation of what a Pentecostal Deacon is, because so far I'm not sure if something like that exists. Other religions have very specific programs and guidelines. For instance, a friend who converted to Catholicism was quite surprised to hear that I had become a deacon, because it's a much more significant commitment in that denomination, by that I mean it's considered a step towards priesthood (with the accompanying training and restrictions).
The first non-denominational deacon was believed to be Stephen, who happens to also be recognized as the first Christian martyr. Stoned to death.
From Wikipedia:
The word deacon is derived from the Greek word diakonos (διάκονος), which is a standard ancient Greek word meaning "servant", "waiting-man," "minister" or "messenger." One commonly promulgated speculation as to its etymology is that it literally means 'through the dust', referring to the dust raised by the busy servant or messenger.
It is generally believed that the office of deacon originated in the selection of seven men, among them Stephen, to assist with the charitable work of the early church as recorded in Acts 6."
So, let's consult Scripture for God's intended explanation. Below is the NIV.
1 Timothy 3:8-13
New International Version (NIV)
8 In the same way, deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9 They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.
11 In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.
12 A deacon must be faithful to his wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13 Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
One thing to point out is the difference between the above and the 1984 NIV, which implies that only men can be deacons. The contemporary NIV appears tweaked to be inclusive. Both versions imply that marriage and children are assumed, which leaves a question about singles and widows. My church does not currently permit divorcees or former-divorcees to hold positions as deacons or elders. It does permit single men. In the same, women are not permitted to serve as deacons, single nor married. The wives of deacons are not deaconesses by default, but are expected to be supportive and follow Scriptural guidelines. Since the latter can be a sensitive subject, I'll be posting on it separately.
Then there's the "Choosing of the Seven", abbreviated below:
Acts 6:1-6
The Choosing of the Seven
1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6 They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
I am also a member of the church board, and in my first meeting the above was paraphrased...that the original deacons "waited tables" and "washed feet". So, there are the aspects of service, caring, and humility.
I've found one book so far that describes the role specific to the denomination, although I am not sure about the author's credentials. I will be ordering a copy and reviewing.
Anyway, that's a start. Some might ask: Isn't that all you need? Isn't Scripture good enough? Why question? Why analyze?
I don't have a good answer for that, other than I feel like I am supposed to be doing this. Some might say "led". I'll explain more on that in another post.
