The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum Female deacons?

James,

I can appreciate your wanting to remain at that congregation, given the present circumstances as it would appear that you are greatly needed there. However........ this does NOT answer the question I asked concerning Paul's statement that "deaconS be husbandS of one wife, etc." Again, this issue of authority, although I do think it is an important one, has been put into the forefront and made the fundamental issue, thus allowing a foothold to those who wish to circumvent the more perspicuous statements concerning the QUALIFICATIONS for the office of Deacon. The qualifications for Deacon are nearly identical to the ones which are given for Elder. The officeS of Elder and Deacon are to be occupied by men and men only. That is the plain teaching of the Scriptures.

As to the "reverse situation", i.e., "she" was already installed before you were.... simple solution once again, IMHO. I would have flatly refused to serve and expressed the biblical teaching in a clear and concise way to all who are responsible. This would not have effected your ABILITY to serve your pastor as you have been doing all along. But, although you say you aren't trying to defend the position that women should be allowed in the Diaconate, yet it appears that you are indeed affirming it. If you aren't then how can we be in disagreement? .

In His Grace,