The general qualification of a deacon would be that they are “…of good reputation, filled with the Spirit and wisdom…” (Acts 6:3).

We believe there are also specific qualifications for deacons, which we see in 1 Timothy 3:8-13.

Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. (1 Timothy 3:8-13, NASB)

Specific qualifications for deacons
  1. Men of dignity: worthy of respect; noble; good character certified by public testimony (1 Tim. 3:8)
  2. Not double-tongued: sincere; truthful; careful in speech (1 Tim. 3:8)
  3. Not addicted to much wine: no addictions; self-control in private, discretion in public; willing to limit personal freedoms to protect the consciences of others (1 Tim. 3:8)
  4. Not fond of sordid gain: not greedy; free from the love of money; having financial integrity (1 Tim. 3:8)
  5. Holding to the mystery of faith with a clear conscience: consistently subject to the revealed secrets of the Christian faith; having harmony between life and belief, practice and doctrine (1 Tim. 3:9)
  6. Let them also be tested: proved faithful over time; stands up under examination and approved (1 Tim. 3:10)
  7. Beyond reproach:  free from justifiable accusation (1 Tim. 3:10; Titus 2:8)
Additional qualifications for female deacons (1 Timothy 3:11)
  1. Dignified: worthy of respect, noble, honorable
  2. Not malicious gossips: not slanderous in speech; avoids gossip; she controls her tongue and speaks wisely and lovingly
  3. Temperate: sober-minded; stable; self-controlled in habits
  4. Faithful in all things: totally trustworthy and reliable; doing well in all relevant life roles
Additional qualifications for married male deacons (1 Timothy 3:12)
  1. Husband of only one wife: marital fidelity; faithful and true to one woman; married life exemplifies God’s design; not flirtatious; not homosexual
  2. Good manager of his children: The family cannot be in turmoil; supervises his family well; provides for their financial, emotional and spiritual well-being
    • Children obey and submit to his leadership
    • Not a spirit-crushing tyrant who gains submission by harsh punishment. (Eph. 6:4)
    • Not passive about the training of his children. (Prov. 3:12; 23:13,14; 29:17)
    • Resolves problems with children in responsible and caring ways
  3. Good manager of his household: The overall affairs of his house should be in order and not be chaotic
Regarding the spiritual state of a nominee’s spouse

If you are married and nominated to be a deacon, your spouse must profess salvation in Jesus Christ as articulated in RBC’s doctrinal statement and be characterized as living a God-honoring life.