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The word “diakonia” is a significant term in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament, where it is used to describe service, ministry, and acts of help or assistance. The term originates from the Greek word διάκονος (diakonos), which means servant, minister, or deacon. Understanding diakonia is essential because it helps believers comprehend their role in serving God, the church, and others.
1. The Definition and Etymology
The word diakonia is found about 34 times in the New Testament and generally refers to ministry, service, or relief work. It is closely related to two other Greek words:
- Diakonos (διάκονος) – meaning servant or minister
- Diakoneō (διακονέω) – meaning to serve or minister
Thus, this term conveys the idea of selfless service done for the benefit of others, whether spiritual (preaching the Gospel) or practical (helping the needy).
The Bible emphasizes that service is a central aspect of Christian life, as Jesus Himself declared:
“Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26, NKJV)
This statement underscores that true greatness in God’s kingdom comes through service.
2. In the New Testament
The word diakonia is used in different contexts in the New Testament, including:
A. Diakonia as Ministry of the Word
One of the most prominent uses of this term is to describe the ministry of preaching and teaching the Word of God.
“But we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry (diakonia) of the word.” (Acts 6:4, NKJV)
In this passage, the apostles decided to focus on diakonia of the Word while appointing others to handle administrative and charitable tasks. This distinction highlights that this term can include both spiritual and practical ministries.
B. Service to Others
Paul used this term to refer to acts of charitable giving and assistance:
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry (diakonia) which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24, NKJV)
This verse emphasizes that this term is not only about material help but also about spreading the Gospel.
C. Practical Help to the Needy
In 2 Corinthians 9:12, Paul connects diakonia to charitable giving:
“For the administration of this service (diakonia) not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:12, NKJV)
Here, this term refers to the work of providing financial or material help to fellow believers.
3. Jesus as the Model of Diakonia
Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of diakonia. He described His mission as one of service:
“Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve (diakoneō), and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28, NKJV)
Jesus’ entire earthly ministry was centered on humble service, healing, teaching, and ultimately giving His life for humanity.
A. Jesus Was a Servant to All
Paul speaks of Christ’s servant-like nature in Philippians 2:5-7:
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” (Philippians 2:5-7, NKJV)
This passage highlights that Jesus’ mission was one of humility and service—a core aspect of diakonia.
4. The Apostolic Teaching on Diakonia
The apostles emphasized diakonia as a central function of the church. Paul taught that believers were called to serve one another in love:
“For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve (diakoneō) one another.” (Galatians 5:13, NKJV)
This verse shows that Christian freedom is not about self-indulgence but about serving others.
A. Paul’s Personal Commitment to Diakonia
Paul described his mission as a calling to diakonia:
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry (diakonia).” (1 Timothy 1:12, NKJV)
This demonstrates that service is a God-given calling, not merely a duty.
5. Diakonia and the Role of Deacons in the Church
The early church appointed deacons (διάκονοι – “diakonoi”) to handle practical service so that the apostles could focus on teaching and prayer.
“Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.” (Acts 6:3, NKJV)
The first deacons, such as Stephen and Philip, were not only responsible for distributing food but also for preaching the Gospel.
A. The Qualifications of Deacons
Paul outlined the moral and spiritual qualifications for deacons in 1 Timothy 3:8-10:
“Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience.” (1 Timothy 3:8-9, NKJV)
This passage shows that diakonia requires integrity, faithfulness, and a strong moral character.
6. Diakonia and the Christian Life
Every Christian is called to serve (diakonia) in some capacity. Peter wrote:
“As each one has received a gift, minister (diakoneō) it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:10, NKJV)
This means that diakonia is not limited to pastors and deacons—all believers are called to serve.
7. The Ultimate Reward for Diakonia
The Bible teaches that those who serve faithfully will be rewarded by God. Jesus said:
“His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’” (Matthew 25:21, NKJV)
This verse shows that God values faithful service, and He will reward those who serve Him diligently.
Conclusion
The word diakonia represents the heart of Christian service. Whether through preaching, helping the needy, or acts of love, believers are called to serve others as Jesus did.
“Let all that you do be done with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14, NKJV)
May we all embrace diakonia with joy, knowing that our service is ultimately for the glory of God.