Overture to 36th GA PCA: Deaconesses

[JBaldwin]

The authority of the deaconate differs from that of the elder. The elder exercises spiritual oversight (authority), while the deacon exercises authority over the physical needs in the mercy ministry.

So you see the original purpose in Acts 6, the apostles needing to focus on spiritual oversight, so the office is instituted to care for the physical needs of the body.

You are so right, and I wish that there was more clear teaching on this in the church. There is a misunderstanding of the qualifications of the two roles (totally different spiritual gifts represented). Since that it is true, I can see why there could be a misunderstanding about the ministry of women and the deaconate. If the impression is that deacons will become elders, there would be a fear that a woman wanting to use her spirituatl gifts under the direction of the deacons would be thinking about becoming elders which is false.

 

[Presbyterian Deacon]

PCA Book of Church Order
7-2 "The ordinary and perpetual classes of office in the Church are elders and deacons....In accord with Scripture, these offices are open to men only."