Jesus proclaimed, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.” (Matthew 28:18)  Considering the magnitude of religious confusion and division in existence, everyone ought to be concerned about the standard of authority used by modern churches.  God is not a God of confusion; He is not divided.  Division and faction are outgrowths of human wisdom and modern innovation.  Jesus Christ is the authority who separates right from wrong, truth from error.

          What are deacons? Who are they? What is their place in the Lord’s church? The inspired gospel of Christ reveals a special group of men identified as “deacons,” who were chosen to serve in the church. This Biblical term in English is actually a transliteration of a Greek word in the New Testament, which primarily means “servant.” Although this particular Greek word for “servant” is used to refer to domestic servants (John 2:5), civil rulers (Rom. 13:4), ministers of Christ (Col. 1:7; 4:7) and even Christ Himself (Rom. 15:8), this term deacon or servant is also used to describe men in Christ appointed particularly to serve in the church where they are known and respected for their exemplary character (1 Tim. 3:10).

            God seeks true worshippers to worship Him (John 4:23).  Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs are an important part of worship to God.  Christians with reverent and thankful hearts have been called to proclaim praises to their Father and their Lord (1 Peter 2:9).  God is well-pleased with the acceptable sacrifices of His children’s lips.

            To whom should we listen?  Whose word ought we to take heed?  Moses’ law?  The prophets’ judgments?  Many religious people turn to the inspired pages of the Old Testament to try to justify modern religious practices and conduct.  Others simply rely on preachers and teachers to tell them what is right from wrong.  Neither of these standards of justification are reliable sources today.