Description: What qualifications matter most to God? We examine the biblical criteria for the first deacons, revealing that God's 'resume' for service prioritizes spiritual maturity and godly character over worldly skills and accomplishments.
Scripture: Acts 6:3, 5
Explanation: From these powerful verses, we learn God's criteria for those who serve in His church. The apostles didn't ask for the best businessmen, the most efficient organizers, or the most popular personalities. They established a far higher standard, one that is spiritual in nature. The qualifications were threefold. First, they must be 'of good report,' meaning they must have a sterling reputation for integrity and godliness among believers and outsiders alike. Second, they must be 'full of the Spirit,' indicating that their lives are not governed by their own fleshly desires but are under the control and guidance of the Holy Spirit. This is the source of all true spiritual power and discernment. Third, they must be full 'of wisdom,' not the world's cleverness, but the divine, practical wisdom that comes from God and His Word, enabling them to make sound judgments. These criteria reveal that God is far more concerned with a person’s inner character and spiritual walk than with their outward talents. True service flows from who a person is in Christ, not just what they can do.
Parable: Let me paint you a picture. Imagine a prestigious symphony orchestra was holding auditions for a new first-chair violinist. The applicants were the best in the world. The first applicant, a renowned prodigy, played a technically flawless piece, but his face was a mask of arrogant pride. The second, a famous celebrity musician, played with flashy showmanship, winking at the conductor and basking in imaginary applause. His performance was more about himself than the music. Dozens came and went, each technically brilliant but missing something essential. Finally, an older, lesser-known man named Arthur took the stage. Before he played, he paused, closed his eyes for a moment, and took a quiet breath. When he drew his bow across the strings, the music that emerged was not just technically perfect; it was full of heart, passion, and a deep, reverent love for the composer's work. He wasn't performing; he was serving the music. The conductor, a wise maestro, stopped him mid-piece. 'The position is yours,' he announced. The other musicians were stunned. 'But his technique wasn't as fast as the prodigy's!' one protested. The conductor smiled. 'We are not looking for the fastest fingers or the most famous name. We are looking for a musician whose heart is in complete harmony with the composer's intent. Technical skill can be taught, but a servant's heart that loves the music above himself? That is the true qualification for this chair.'
Moral: The maestro in our story understood a principle that is paramount in the kingdom of God. While the world looks at the resume, the skills, and the outward appearance, God looks at the heart. The qualifications for service in the church—a good reputation, being full of the Spirit, and possessing divine wisdom—are all matters of character that flow from a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called. He seeks those whose hearts are in tune with His, men and women who will serve not for their own glory, but for the glory of the Great Composer of all things. As the Scripture says of deacons, 'Let these also first be proved; then let them serve as deacons, if they be blameless.' 1 Timothy 3:10 (ASV).