----- Original Message ----- 
From: <24jreisinger26@...>
> This text is crystal clear that there is nothing in the meaning of the 
> word “deacon” to indicate that it means waiting on tables as opposed to >“preaching 
> the word.”

Sure it does.  One is general (servant), the other is more specific (waiting 
on tables).  Two meanings of the same word occur in the same passage.

>The contrast in this verse is not between “deaconing” and “ministering,”

That's precisely the contrast being drawn in this passage.  In fact, that's 
the purpose of this passage.  The apostles (and Luke who is chronicling this 
in narrative) make a clear distinction in function of church ministry... 
deaconing and ministry of the word.

> since both of these words mean the same thing

Well, no they don't.  That's an exegetical fallacy.

> but the contrast is between “deaconing tables” and “deaconing the word.”

Correct.

>The words exactly the same thing in both cases.

Incorrect.

>The context alone shows what is being deaconed.

Precisely.  The context alone shows there is a difference in meaning between 
the two.

> Scripture use of the word “deacon” simply will not allow for an “office”

1 Tim. 3:8 says otherwise.


Pastor Chad Richard Bresson
Clearcreek Chapel
Springboro, OH
http://breusswane.blogspot.com