Handbook for Deacons is an excellent resource for all ministers and deacons. Dr. O'Donnell begins by exploring the biblical basis for these servants of God, and then helps the reader discover what the Scriptures say about the responsibilities of a deacon. The timeless message of his work continues to be a vital training resource for churches of all sizes. This book is a best seller as a training resource. Chapters include: origin of the office, qualifications of deacons, selection of deacons, service of ordination, and responsibilities involved inthe role of deacons.
The reason for the office of deacon remain primarily the same as that found in the New Testament. It is one of the two office found in the church of New Testament times. The divine origin of this office gives it significance and eternal usefulness. The office of deacon was set up to free the pastors for more pressing tasks. Just as Moses organized a group of leaders to free him from the details of his work and to allow him more strength for vital duties, so the Holy Spirit led the apostles in granting officer to the church who would free the pastors for the chief tasks. This principle was present in the choice of the seven (Acts 6) and certainly was in mind when Paul described deacons to Timothy (1 Timothy 3). The office of deacon was instituted when the church was a more simple organization. In the more complex organization of today, the deacon is more greatly needed than ever before. In a large church the administration of the staff alone could consume all the pastor's time. Shut-in and hospital visitation could be another full-time ministry. Deacons can be used to relieve pastors from so many of these extra duties so that he can have proper time for prayer, meditation, the reading of the Bible, and sermon preparation.