“But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless” (1 Timothy 3:10).
There may not seem to be much in common between an idea, a truth claim, a machine, a human being, and a scientific hypothesis. However, there is something common to each of them: they each have the capacity to succeed or fail when put to the test.
In a similar manner, we can verify one’s fitness to serve as a deacon in much the same way: “Before they are appointed as deacons, let them be closely examined. If they pass the test, then let them serve as deacons” (NLT).
One scholar expands upon the test referenced in this verse by offering the following insight…
“The test and approval here do not refer to a formal examination, but have reference to the general judgment of the Christian community as to whether they fulfil the specifications set down in verse 8.” (1)
Another Biblical scholar adds, “This is the Greek term dokimazo, which is used with the connotation of ‘to test with a view toward approval’…” (2)
These examinations are important, for it is often unwise for someone to start “at the top” in a ministry responsibility. Instead, it is far more prudent for men and women to prove themselves by working their way up from lesser to greater responsibilities. For instance, an overseer may ask a prospective deacon to perform a relatively small task. If that person demonstrates faithfulness, integrity, and the ability to complete such an undertaking, he or she may be asked to move on to larger endeavors.
However, this principle extends far beyond the measure of one’s fitness to serve in meeting the practical needs of the church. Consider Jesus’ message from the Gospel of Luke…
“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own?” (Luke 10-12 NLT).
Therefore, a person who is already handling life’s responsibilities in a God-honoring manner is someone who is sure to pass this kind of evaluation before he or she is asked to assume an official role. To a certain extent, such potential leaders are recognized rather than appointed for they are often doing the things that make them right for the position before they are ever given a title.
(1) Kenneth S. Wuest, Word Studies in the Greek New Testament [1 Timothy 3:10] Copyright © 1942-55 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
(2) Dr. Bob Utley. Free Bible Commentary, [1 Timothy 3:10] Copyright © 2014 Bible Lessons International http://www.freebiblecommentary.org/new_testament_studies/VOL09/VOL09_03.html