I am finally getting around to some overdue Deacon candidate interviews. After three sessions of training (I, II, & III), I am meeting with each candidate. In preparation I am praying for each candidate, re-reading their reflection papers, and formulating candidate specific questions. During the interview I am looking for their understanding and commitment to Gospel, Community, and Mission.
In general, I begin by catching up with them and asking them the following questions:
- Communion with God: Describe your walk with the Lord. How is it going?
- Office of Deacon: From what you have learned about the office of deacon, what are you concerned and excited about in potentially serving the church in this way?
- Purity of Life: Are there any areas in your life that are out of step with the character of a deacon? Do you struggle with impurity in any particular area?
- The Gospel: Describe how the gospel is shaping your life and decision-making.
- Mission: How are you currently living out the mission of Christ?
These have been influenced by Tim Keller.
Church Planting Novice 
4 comments
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February 6, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Sam Marsh
An intimidating set of questions!
February 7, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Thomas
Your requirements for leadership would overlap with my own, i.e. I would agree with them. At the same time, however, my own core questions are different. I’ve developed these over nearly thirty years of ministry: 1. does this (potential) deacon know the Lord, 2. is he/she well regarded, and 3. is he/she peaceable? I would regard these questions, as simple as they are, as key ingredients in having created a viable and vibrant urban Church. My full post is at http://thomasscarborough.blogspot.com/2007/09/leadership-requirements.html. It would be interesting if Sam Marsh would expand on his very brief comment above. Do you have a source for your questions?
February 7, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Jonathan Dodson
Thanks Thomas. We also evaluate that criteria, but on the front end of candidate selection not on the back end of post-training interviews.
February 9, 2009 at 11:27 am
Boaly
Very intimidating indeed, but much needed. (Imagining how it would look if we adapted these questions to suit when just meeting up with friends, friendships may be lost).
Thabit Anyabwile had a great series on deacons as well – http://purechurch.blogspot.com/search/label/deacons