Leadership Resources

Deacon Qualifications Test

1 Timothy 3:8–13

The following survey is a tool designed to evaluate the qualifications of a deacon candidate. The survey asks questions related to nine qualities described in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. Each question may be answered with a Yes, No or Unsure, although space is also provided after each section for additional comments. Please answer as honestly as possible. Negative answers are not necessarily disqualifying, but rather could be very helpful for both the candidate and the church. Thank you for your input!

Answer each question Yes, No, or Unsure. Results are emailed to the address you enter below as soon as you submit.

The person who should receive these results.
1 Dignified

Does he have the respect of his peers?

Is it true that he does not do things that bring disrespect to himself or his family?

Does he treat sensitive matters appropriately?

Is he aware of spiritual realities and is appropriately sober?

2 Not Double-Tongued

Is it true that he does not change his opinion or instructions when faced with pressure?

Is he consistent in what he says to people?

Do people find him believable?

Is he open and honest with others about what he is really thinking?

3 Not Addicted to Much Wine

Is it true that there are no sins that have mastered him?

Is he careful to do nothing to cause a weaker Christian to stumble?

Is he self-controlled emotionally?

Does he refrain from excessive drinking or taking addictive drugs?

4 Not Greedy for Dishonest Gain

Does he trust God when tested financially?

Is he generous with his money?

Is he content before God in his present financial situation?

Does he tithe?

5 Holding to the Mystery of the Faith with a Clear Conscience

Does he align theologically with your Church in key doctrines?

Is he firmly committed to uphold the truth of the Bible?

Does he have assurance regarding salvation?

When he sins, does he quickly claim the forgiveness God gives through Jesus Christ?

6 Tested

Has he successfully served the church in some capacity?

Has he earned the respect of those he has served through his ministry?

Did he cooperate well with others in the areas in which he has served?

Does he successfully complete tasks assigned to him?

7 Blameless

Is it true that no one has an unresolved complaint against him?

Do his friends, roommates, wife, and fellow ministry workers believe he is qualified to be a deacon?

Does he believe he is qualified to be a deacon?

Does he have a clear conscience?

8 Husband of One Wife

Is it true that neither he nor his wife (if married) have been divorced? Note: if a divorce in question was biblically based, then answer "Yes".

Is he faithful to his wife physically? (If single, does he have control over his sexual desires?)

Is he pure in his relationships with other women in the church?

Does he have a high moral standard as to what he reads and watches?

9 Manages Children and Household Well

Does he lead his family to seek God?

Does he take the lead in training his children?

Is his house clean and orderly?

Does he maintain a budget with respect to his finances?