What may we observe about deacons in Acts 6:1-7? 1. Their work was practical in nature. 2. Their name also denotes the practical nature of their work. They are servants. But practical work is spiritual work when done for Christ and the kingdom. 3. Their objective was to relieve the elders (originally the apostles) for the ministry of the Word, prayer, and oversight of the church. 4. They were to be accountable to the Elders (“whom we may put in charge”). 5. Their work was assigned and was not related to decision-making for the church as a whole. 6. Some deacons were also gifted in other areas of ministry and were at liberty to use their gifts. Stephen and Phillip, for instance, were deacons who also had other gifting. As deacons, however, they functioned in a practical way. Deacons are not limited to practical service, but must be engaged in practical service to be deacons.