'Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus' (1 Timothy 3.8-13).
Before we come to the specific issue of 'female deacons' we need to clearly understand some basic principles concerning our basis of faith.
As evangelical churches, what we believe and the way we do things must be in harmony with Scripture. We believe that Scripture is the only authority in all matters of faith and practice. In other words, that is what Scripture teaches about Scripture. Therefore we seek to allow the Word of God to guide and govern us in our beliefs and behaviour. So when we come to look at church government we desire to be ruled by Scripture alone in determining how to regulate and order our affairs to exalt the Saviour, edify the saints and evangelise sinners.
