In Acts chapters 4–6, what were the requirements for the deacons chosen for the service of tables?
By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10
In Acts chapter 6, when the twelve Apostles called the multitude of the disciples together to address the oversight of the daily distribution to the widows, they established specific spiritual and moral requirements for those who would be appointed to the rank of deacon.
According to Acts 6:3, the requirements for the seven chosen for the service of tables were:
- Of Good Reputation: They had to be men of "honest report" (witnessed to), meaning they were known for their integrity and blamelessness within the community.
- Full of the Holy Spirit: It was not enough to be efficient administrators; they had to be spiritually mature and led by the grace of the Holy Spirit.
- Full of Wisdom: They required the discernment and practical wisdom necessary to manage the resources of the Church and handle potential conflicts or partiality in the distribution.
The Apostles emphasized these requirements because, in the Coptic Orthodox tradition, the diaconate is not merely a secular or administrative role but a liturgical and spiritual service. Even though they were chosen to "serve tables", men like St. Stephen (the Protomartyr) and St. Philip demonstrated that these deacons were also powerful preachers and defenders of the faith.
In accordance with our rites, these foundational biblical requirements continue to inform the qualifications for the various ranks of the diaconate today. For example, a Subdeacon must be recommended by the congregation and the other deacons, be known for his righteousness and faithful deeds, and be "faithful in his deeds" and "of perfected speech."